Fatal Midair Collision Near Hammonton Airport

The aviation community is reeling after a fatal midair collision involving two Enstrom helicopters near Hammonton Municipal Airport in New Jersey. The tragic incident, which occurred shortly after takeoff on December 28, claimed the lives of both pilots, Kenneth Kirsch, 65, and Michael Greenberg, 71, and has immediately triggered a high-level investigation by the NTSB and FAA into mechanical failures and the oversight of older operators.

Story Highlights

Two helicopters collided midair shortly after takeoff from Hammonton Municipal Airport, resulting in both pilots’ deaths.
Mechanical failure is under investigation as a potential cause of the collision.
The incident has prompted a review of low-altitude flight safety protocols near small airports.
Age and experience of pilots may lead to discussions on regulations for older operators.

Midair Collision Claims Two Lives Near New Jersey Airport

On December 28, 2025, at approximately 11:30 AM, a tragic midair collision occurred involving two Enstrom helicopters shortly after takeoff from Hammonton Municipal Airport in New Jersey. The pilots, Kenneth Kirsch, 65, and Michael Greenberg, 71, lost their lives in this rare aviation disaster. Kirsch’s helicopter burst into flames upon crashing into a tree line, while Greenberg’s aircraft landed in an open field, where he was pronounced dead.
The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) are leading the investigation into the collision, focusing on potential mechanical failures and pilot error. This incident has drawn significant attention due to its proximity to the airport and the advanced age of the pilots, raising questions about the safety of older pilots operating aircraft.

UPDATE: Authorities now confirm a second fatality from yesterday’s midair helicopter collision in Hammonton, NJ. Both pilots' friends who lived in New Jersey were killed in the crash. https://t.co/UFkEpCvVza pic.twitter.com/q5ZheEfcfl

— Moshe Schwartz (@YWNReporter) December 29, 2025

Questions Surrounding Aviation Safety Protocols

The Hammonton Municipal Airport, a small public-use facility, supports general aviation, including helicopter operations. The collision occurred less than a mile from the airport, in a rural area of Atlantic County, where low-altitude flights are common. Aviation specialists are examining whether visibility issues, air traffic control lapses, or mechanical problems could have contributed to the crash. The findings could lead to stricter safety measures for helicopter operations near small airports.

In the wake of this tragedy, there is an increased focus on the safety protocols governing low-altitude flights and the oversight of older pilots. The Enstrom models involved in the collision may come under scrutiny for any potential mechanical vulnerabilities, prompting discussions on updated maintenance checks and flight training for older pilots.

Community and Industry Reactions

The Hammonton community mourns the loss of Kirsch and Greenberg, both experienced pilots known in local aviation circles. The incident has caused shock and grief among their families and friends. Meanwhile, the aviation industry is on alert as this collision may influence future regulations regarding pilot age and aircraft maintenance, especially for helicopters operating in uncontrolled airspace.

As the NTSB and FAA continue their investigation, stakeholders in the aviation sector are paying close attention to any safety recommendations that may arise. The outcome of this investigation is expected to play a crucial role in shaping future policies aimed at preventing such tragedies.

Watch the report: Both pilots killed after midair helicopter collision in New Jersey