Two Pilots Identified in Fatal Hammonton Helicopter Collision
On December 28, 2025, two helicopters collided midair over Hammonton, New Jersey, resulting in the tragic deaths of both pilots. The incident occurred around 11:25 a.m., near Route 30 and Basin Road, approximately one mile from Hammonton Municipal Airport.
Victims of the Collision
The two pilots involved were:
- Michael Greenberg, 71, from Sewell, N.J.
- Kenneth L. Kirsch, 65, from Carneys Point, N.J.
Greenberg was pronounced dead at the crash site, while Kirsch succumbed to his injuries at a hospital shortly after.
Details of the Crash
The collision occurred shortly after both pilots had taken off following breakfast at the Apron Café located at the airport. According to café owner Sal Silipino, the two were regular patrons and well-liked members of the community. Eyewitnesses reported seeing both helicopters flying in close proximity before the tragic event took place.
One helicopter, an Enstrom F-28A piloted by Kirsch, crashed into a nearby field and caught fire. The other, an Enstrom 280C piloted by Greenberg, struggled to maintain control before also going down, landing in the backyard of local resident Caitlyn Collins.
Witness Accounts
Witness Diana Cluff described the helicopters as flying unusually low and close together just before the impact. “It was horrifying,” she remarked, recounting the moment the crash occurred. Another witness, Collins, reported hearing the aircraft moments before they crashed, prompting her and her husband to rush to the scene to assist the injured pilot.
Helicopter Operation Regulations
Former Marine and commercial pilot Ron Alvarado highlighted that flying in tandem necessitates specific training and FAA approval. He noted that midair collisions are quite rare and typically, aircraft are expected to maintain a distance of at least half a mile from one another.
The Hammonton Municipal Airport lacks a control tower, requiring pilots to communicate on a shared radio frequency to avoid conflicts. Alvarado stressed the importance of situational awareness in avoiding such incidents.
Investigation Underway
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are currently investigating the crash. The NTSB will lead the inquiry, which will include a thorough examination of the pilots, aircraft, and environmental conditions at the time of the collision. A preliminary report from the NTSB is anticipated within 30 days, while the final report may take up to two years.
FAA records indicate that one of the helicopters was registered to a charter service in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, while the other was privately owned in New Jersey. No further details have been released as investigators continue their work.
