BUSINESS
Tragic Helicopter Crash: What Happened to the Tower?
Houston, USATue Oct 22 2024
On Sunday night, a helicopter crashed into a radio tower near downtown Houston. The tower, recently acquired by SBA Communications, stood at 999 feet tall. Four people, including a child, lost their lives in the tragedy. The helicopter was flying at 600 feet, which is much lower than the tower's height. The National Transportation Safety Board confirmed that the helicopter didn't have a flight data recorder. SBA Communications assured that they took safety measures, like issuing a NOTAM (Notice to Air Missions), after acquiring the tower. They are cooperating with authorities on a full investigation.
The tower was previously owned in part by Univision and sold in September. SBA manages towers in several countries. They stated that they had no knowledge of any lighting issues on the tower. The FCC identified the radio stations operating from the tower. Witnesses can send reports and statements to the NTSB. SBA Communications will provide more information as the federal investigation continues.
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questions
What steps did SBA Communications take to ensure the tower's safety after acquiring it?
How effective are NOTAMs in preventing such incidents?
Is there a cover-up involving the company's recent acquisition of the tower?