Two Helicopter Pilots Died in Midair Collision in South Jersey by Basin Road and White Horse Pike
SOUTH JERSEY, NEW JERSEY (January 5, 2026)—Two helicopter pilots have died in a South Jersey midair collision near the intersection of Bass Road and White Horse Pike.
Atlantic County officials are saying the accident took place around 11:25 AM on Sunday. Both helicopters apparently took off from the Hammonton Municipal Airport before they collided.
Firefighters and paramedics were called to the scene of the collision to help all of the victims. One of the helicopters was entirely engulfed in flames by the time first responders arrived.
Sadly, one pilot died due to the severe nature of his injuries. A second pilot died after being transported to the hospital in critical condition.
It remains unclear what may have caused the crash. A full investigation into the accident by the NTSB remains ongoing.
Liability for South Jersey Helicopter Crashes
A number of people are killed or seriously injured every year in helicopter crashes. According to the AOPA, “Non-commercial helicopter total accidents continued to decline to a 10-year low with 79 accidents, 14 of which were fatal. Eighty-five percent of the accidents were pilot-related with 15 percent mechanical-related. While fatal accidents increased—ending a two-year trend—the increase was minimal with 14 fatal accidents in 2016, up from 11 in 2015.” There are a number of common causes of helicopter crashes.
- Many helicopter crashes are the results of pilot error. This can include deciding to fly with low fuel or during poor weather conditions.
- Another major cause of accidents is mechanical failure. This can include engine failure or transmission problems.
- Helicopters can also crash if they come into contact with low-altitude hazards.
Helicopter companies have a legal obligation to exercise due care and operate their helicopters safely. This requires that they adequately inspect and maintain all of their helicopters. Pilots must also be well trained. Every pilot is supposed to maintain visual contact with other aircraft and take evasive maneuvers to avoid collisions. When a pilot deviates from their own path into the flight path of another aircraft, this could form the basis of a negligence claim. It is important that certain actions are taken after any helicopter crash.
- Surveillance footage of the incident should be sought.
- Medical records related to the incident should be preserved.
- Victims should seek the guidance of an experienced personal injury attorney.
It can be difficult to know where to begin after any helicopter crash. Victims are routinely left with catastrophic injuries. Of course, many people do not survive. It is important for accident victims to understand that they do have legal rights. They are able to seek some measure of accountability through a personal injury claim. This right also extends to the surviving family members of any person who died. They are able to seek some measure of justice through a wrongful death claim.
Investigating South Jersey Helicopter Crashes
We at GLK Law extend our deepest condolences to the family of the two pilots killed in this helicopter crash. Any person who may have more information should reach out to the police. There needs to be a thorough investigation into what went wrong.
Have you or someone that you care about been injured in a South Jersey helicopter crash? You may have legal recourse. Our team of personal injury attorneys is here to answer any questions that you may have. We care deeply that accident victims are aware of their rights and that those rights are being protected. Whether you just have legal questions or need any type of support, we are here to serve your needs. You can reach out to us anytime at (516) 908-9792.
