Deadly NYC helicopter crash has three theories: 'We’ll see where it goes'

Editor's note: The video aired in a previous newscast,

NEW YORK (PIX11) – On Thursday, a helicopter dropped from the sky and fell into the Hudson River, killing six people, officials said. 

A room full of reporters gathered to question National Transportation Safety Board Chair Jennifer Homendy, Director of the Jersey City Office of Emergency Management and Homeland Security Greg Kierce, and Jersey City Mayor  Steven Fulop. 

At a news conference on Friday, Fulop noted three theories that may have contributed to the helicopter crash that killed a family of Spanish tourists and the pilot. 

“There are three working theories,” Jersey City Mayor Steven Fulop stated. “There was the birds discussion, drone discussion, and mechanical failure discussion. We’ll see where it goes. I don't want to hypothesize, but as time goes on, we'll leave at that.”

The NTSB said other vital pieces, including the helicopter's transmission, roof, and tail structures, were also missing. 

Community activists and officials have consistently proposed banning or restricting traffic at Manhattan heliports, citing New York City’s history of fatal helicopter accidents that have claimed 38 lives since 1977, as well as the relentless noise.

Fulop echoed the complaints of community activists, urging the FAA to limit helicopter tourism in the congested airspace over New York and New Jersey, which is home to three major international airports. 

He also noted that news organizations and transportation agencies also operate in a dangerously tight space. 

The helicopter that crashed had completed multiple tours before it crashed. Officials noted the company is a very busy operator, which will probably lead to questions about maintenance. 

This story comprises reporting from The Associated Press.