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NYPD Helicopter Mayday, Seaplane Crashes in East River, 8 Rescued

7/5/2026

44 6 Full Breakdown

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NYPD Helicopter Mayday

An NYPD helicopter broadcast a Mayday call when the seaplane struck the East River, causing the wing strut to snap.
Eight people were rescued after the Kodiak 100 seaplane landed in New York East River, with the aircraft being towed.
The Federal Aviation Administration opened an investigation, confirming the wing strut snapped on impact.
Records indicate the Kodiak 100 was built last year and its owner is unlisted.

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FDNY Rescues

The crash happened less than a month after another seaplane was rescued from the East River after a wave strike.
Eight passengers on a seaplane crashed into New York City’s East River, and all were rescued by the FDNY.
First responders lifted the partially capsized aircraft upright and towed it back to the dock.
Five vessels, including another seaplane, helped the rescue near the 23rd Street/FDR Drive terminal.

History

Historical Context

Congress established the independent National Transportation Safety Board in 1974 as commercial aviation expanded in the early 1970s. Empowered to investigate accidents and issue non-binding safety recommendations, the NTSB has guided FAA regulatory actions. The May 2024 Kodiak 100 seaplane crash in New York’s East River follows that significant ongoing investigative legacy.

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NYPD Helicopter Mayday

An NYPD helicopter broadcast a Mayday call when the seaplane struck the East River, causing the wing strut to snap.
Eight people were rescued after the Kodiak 100 seaplane landed in New York East River, with the aircraft being towed.
The Federal Aviation Administration opened an investigation, confirming the wing strut snapped on impact.
Records indicate the Kodiak 100 was built last year and its owner is unlisted.

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