NTSB, FAA investigating Novant Airlink crash
NEW HANOVER COUNTY, NC (WWAY) — Federal investigators are looking into a helicopter crash that occurred Monday night near the New Hanover and Pender County line.
The Federal Aviation Administration and the National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the incident, which happened around 8:30 p.m. off Holly Shelter Road.
According to the NTSB, the Airlink medical helicopter sustained substantial damage in the crash.
A Novant Health NHRMC spokesperson confirmed three Novant Health team members were on board at the time and were taken to a hospital for evaluation. No patients were on the aircraft.
The NTSB’s investigation will focus on three key areas: the pilot, the aircraft, and the operating environment. As part of the process, investigators will gather the following information and records:
- Flight track data
- Recordings of any air traffic control communications
- Aircraft maintenance records
- Pilot’s license, ratings and recency of flight experience
- Electronic devices that could contain information relevant to the investigation
- Any available surveillance video, including from doorbell cameras
- During the on-scene phase of the investigative process, the NTSB does not determine or speculate about the cause of the accident.
A preliminary report is expected within 30 days. A probable cause of the crash along with any contributing factors will be detailed in the final report, which is expected in 6-12 months.
