MANHATTAN: Helicopter Crashes Midtown Building, Pilot Killed

6.10.19 | by Adam Balhetchet | MIDTOWN, Manhattan – A helicopter crash-landed on a midtown roof which claimed a life of a pilot. It happened around 2 pm Monday, at the 54-story AZA Equitable Center located at 787 7th Ave, 51st St on the cross. The pilot identified by a Linden Municipal Airport manager as Tim McCormack dropped a passenger at the East 34th St Heliport. He then departed the 34th Street Helipad with the private helicopter around 1:30 pm en route to Linden, New Jersey where the helicopters base was located. Officials believe weather may have been a factor in the crash landing. Dramatic video shows the moment the helicopter was disoriented in the heavy rain and fog prior to the crash. When he crashed around 2 pm, the helicopter was engulfed in fire. FDNY transmitted a 2-alarm response for the blaze. Photos taken by the FDNY shows helicopter wreckage barely recognizable. The building was evacuated and searches for victims yielded negative results. Department of buildings reported no structural damage and was safe to occupy. FAA released the following statement “An Agusta A109E helicopter crashed on the roof of 787 Seventh Ave. in New York at around 1:45 p.m. today. Preliminary information is that only the pilot was aboard. FAA air traffic controllers did not handle the flight. The NTSB will be in charge of the investigation and will determine the probable cause of the accident. We will release the aircraft registration after NYC officials will release the pilot’s name.” President Trump tweeted: “I have been briefed on the helicopter crash in New York City. Phenomenal job by our GREAT First Responders who are currently on the scene. THANK YOU for all you do 24/7/365! The Trump Administration stands ready should you need anything at all.” The helicopter’s owner American Continental Properties Inc., released the following statement: “We are mourning the loss of Tim McCormack who has flown for us for the past five years. Our hearts are with his family and friends.” Congresswoman Carolyn B. Maloney released this statement “My staff & I are actively monitoring the helicopter crash in Midtown. My thoughts & prayers are w the pilot’s family & everyone affected. For yrs, I’ve been fighting for better & stronger safety regulations for Manhattan helicopter use b/c of my concern about an event like this.”