Hammonton Helicopter Collision: Understanding Your Rights in Aviation Mid-Air Accidents

Introduction

The skies, while vast, are not without their risks. Recent events, such as the tragic mid-air helicopter collision in Hammonton, New Jersey on December 28, 2025, serve as stark reminders of the potential dangers in aviation. In this devastating incident, two helicopters collided near Hammonton Municipal Airport, resulting in fatalities and critical injuries. Understanding your rights following such an aviation accident is crucial. This article aims to provide guidance on navigating the legal landscape surrounding aviation mid-air collisions, specifically in light of the Hammonton tragedy.

The Hammonton Helicopter Collision: A Case Study

On December 28, 2025, two Enstrom helicopters, models F-28A and 280C, collided mid-air near Hammonton Municipal Airport in Atlantic County, New Jersey. Preliminary reports indicate that only the pilots were on board each aircraft. One pilot, Michael Greenberg, 71, was pronounced dead at the scene, while the other, Kenneth Kirsch, 65, later succumbed to his injuries at a local hospital. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) have launched investigations into the crash, focusing on the pilots, the aircraft, and the operating environment. Witnesses reported seeing the helicopters flying close together before the collision. Such details will be critical in determining the cause of the accident and who may be held liable.

Causes of Helicopter Mid-Air Collisions

Several factors can contribute to helicopter mid-air collisions, including:

Pilot Error: This can involve misjudgment of distance, failure to maintain proper altitude, or inadequate pre-flight planning.
Air Traffic Control Negligence: Errors by air traffic controllers, such as failing to provide accurate guidance or maintain safe separation between aircraft, can lead to collisions.
Mechanical Failure: Malfunctions in the helicopter’s systems, such as engine failure or rotor issues, can compromise control and increase the risk of accidents.
Weather Conditions: Poor visibility due to fog, clouds, or other adverse weather can make it difficult for pilots to see and avoid other aircraft.
Inadequate Training: Insufficient training or lack of experience can impair a pilot’s ability to respond effectively in critical situations.
Defective Parts: Manufacturing flaws or substandard components can lead to system failures and increase the likelihood of a crash.

Determining Liability in a Helicopter Accident

Establishing liability in a helicopter accident is a complex process that requires a thorough investigation. Parties that may be held liable include:

The Pilot: If the pilot’s negligence contributed to the accident, they may be held liable. Pilot errors could include abrupt use of the throttle, failure to maintain altitude, using too much or too little takeoff speed, or flying while overly tired or under the influence.
Air Traffic Control: If air traffic control personnel failed to provide adequate guidance or maintain safe separation, they could be held liable.
The Helicopter Owner/Operator: The company or individual responsible for the helicopter’s operation may be liable if they failed to maintain the aircraft properly or hired unqualified pilots. Tour services can be held to the same high standards as commercial airline or helicopter operators.
Maintenance Providers: Negligence in maintaining or repairing the helicopter can lead to liability. Skipped inspections, ignored Airworthiness Directives, altered logs, or uncertified parts put every passenger at risk.
Helicopter or Component Manufacturers: If a defect in the helicopter’s design or manufacturing caused the accident, the manufacturer may be held liable under product liability laws.
Tour Services: Tour services are held to the same high standards as commercial airline or helicopter operators. Negligent charter services could be held responsible for accidents that occur due to failure to maintain the aircraft or inadequately train pilots.

Your Rights Following a Helicopter Mid-Air Collision

If you or a loved one has been involved in a helicopter mid-air collision, it is essential to understand your legal rights:

Seek Medical Attention: Your health and well-being are paramount. Obtain immediate medical attention for any injuries sustained in the accident.
Consult with an Aviation Attorney: An experienced aviation accident attorney can help you understand your rights and options. They can investigate the accident, gather evidence, and build a strong case on your behalf.
Preserve Evidence: If possible, preserve any evidence related to the accident, such as photos, videos, and witness statements.
File a Report: Report the accident to the appropriate authorities, such as the NTSB and FAA.
Understand Potential Compensation: You may be entitled to compensation for medical expenses, lost wages, pain and suffering, and other damages. In the event of a fatality, family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim. Victims of helicopter crashes may recover economic and non-economic damages. The specific types of damages available will depend on state law, but often they include medical expenses, lost income, lost earning capacity, property damage, pain and suffering, emotional distress, and scarring and disfigurement.

The Role of the NTSB and FAA

Following a helicopter accident, the NTSB and FAA conduct investigations to determine the cause and contributing factors. The NTSB’s investigation focuses on three primary areas: the pilots, the aircraft, and the operating environment. These investigations aim to improve aviation safety and prevent future accidents. While the NTSB’s final report is not always directly admissible in court, the data and analysis guide expert opinions that juries trust.

Legal Claims and Compensation

Victims of helicopter crashes may be entitled to various types of compensation, including:

Medical Expenses: Coverage for past and future medical bills related to the accident injuries.
Lost Wages: Reimbursement for lost income due to the inability to work.
Pain and Suffering: Compensation for physical pain, emotional distress, and mental anguish.
Property Damage: Coverage for damage to personal property.
Wrongful Death: In the event of a fatality, family members may be able to pursue a wrongful death claim for damages such as funeral expenses, loss of companionship, and loss of financial support.

The Importance of Legal Representation

Aviation accident cases are complex and require specialized legal knowledge. An experienced aviation attorney can:

Investigate the Accident: Conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident and identify all liable parties.
Gather Evidence: Collect and preserve critical evidence, such as flight data recorders, maintenance records, and witness statements.
Negotiate with Insurance Companies: Handle communications with insurance companies and negotiate a fair settlement.
Litigate the Case: If a fair settlement cannot be reached, an attorney can file a lawsuit and represent you in court.

Conclusion

The Hammonton helicopter collision is a tragic reminder of the risks associated with aviation. If you or a loved one has been affected by a helicopter accident, understanding your rights and seeking legal representation is crucial. An experienced aviation attorney can help you navigate the complex legal landscape and pursue the compensation you deserve. Contact a qualified attorney to discuss your case and protect your rights.