The crash of the NBC4 helicopter in Chatsworth, California, on Monday night resulted in the deaths of two journalists and a pedestrian. This incident followed a fatal collision involving a metro bus and led to a major disaster. In total, these events claimed the lives of five people and injured several others.
Details of the Incident and Investigation
The investigation is being conducted by the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to determine the cause of the Eurocopter AS350 B2 helicopter crash. Fabian Salazar, an NTSB investigator, stated that the investigative team is examining wreckage, maintenance records, security footage, weather reports, and interviewing witnesses to identify the source of the problem.
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The most significant information obtained so far is the recorded audio from the helicopter during a live broadcast by reporter Eliana Morris and pilot George Marchini. The audio indicates that the helicopter's engine suddenly lost power, followed by a warning alarm. Eliana reacted to this sound by saying "Uh-oh" and then asked the pilot, "Can't you climb?" before the video cut off.
Expert Analysis and Helicopter Condition
Aviation experts believe that the crash was likely due to a technical malfunction in the 22-year-old helicopter. Zoe Tour, an experienced helicopter pilot, stated that the recorded sound indicates engine failure. She added, "Initially, the engine begins to lose power, which leads to a reduction in rotor blade power. Then the warning alarm sounds, indicating a decrease in rotor blade speed."
Meanwhile, Jack Kress, a former U.S. Navy helicopter pilot, explained that in situations where the helicopter is at low altitude and low speed, executing a safety maneuver known as "auto-rotation" is very difficult. This condition is also referred to as a "dead curve" and refers to a situation where pilots have few options if a problem arises.
The helicopter was owned by Tiny Bubbles Aviation Inc., which is registered as the owner of at least six aircraft, including five helicopters. Lawrence Volk, the company's president, confirmed that they have begun cooperating with investigators but declined to comment on the incident.
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