NEW YORK — A federal court jury in New York issued a $116 million award on Friday to the family of a man who died in a helicopter crash over New York City’s East River. The crash, which took place in March 2018, involved a no-door sightseeing helicopter that plunged into the river, resulting in the deaths of five passengers.
The lawsuit, filed by the family of Trevor Cadigan, a 26-year-old journalist from Dallas, argued the helicopter’s operator, FlyNYON, was negligent in ensuring the safety of its passengers. The jury concurred with the plaintiffs, resolving that both FlyNYON and its parent company, NYONAir, were at fault.
Surviving the incident was only the pilot, who managed to free himself and was rescued by a passing tugboat. However, all passengers were securely harnessed and thus unable to escape as the helicopter filled with water and sank. The crash investigation highlighted significant safety lapses, especially in the area of passenger restraints.
Critics have long scrutinized FlyNYON for its harness system, which, though it could keep passengers secure while photographing the city’s skyline, evidently became a hazard when an emergency water landing required quick evacuation. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has since imposed stringent regulations on helicopter tour operators, mandating enhanced briefing procedures and ensuring easier egress during emergencies.
Legal professionals suggest that the substantial jury award in this case reflects both the gravity of the company’s negligence and the profound impact of Trevor Cadigan’s death on his family. The trial featured emotional testimonies from his family members, who described Cadigan’s vibrant personality and promising journalism career cut tragically short.
This case may influence future operations and regulatory measures in the airborne tour industry, emphasizing passenger safety and operational accountability. Some analysts believe this ruling could prompt other operators to reconsider their safety protocols to avoid similar tragedies.
In memory of Cadigan, his family has established a foundation focusing on supporting aspiring journalists, continuing his legacy in the field he was passionate about.
The verdict handed down in this case underscores a message to the adventure and leisure aviation sectors about the paramount importance of passenger safety over the visual or experiential allure of such ventures.
Helicopter sightseeing tours, popular in several of America’s scenic cities, now face increased scrutiny as both passengers and regulatory bodies demand higher safety standards.
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