Statement of REC Networks regarding mid-air collision of KTVK and KNXV helicopters over Phoenix

The use of news helicopters was very much pioneered here in the Phoenix market, mainly because of our large general aviation community and great flying weather. What happened today was a spectacular tragedy. I have done my share of crying over the incident. I will be looking forward to the outcome of the investigation and any new rulings the FAA may come out with. It's very rare that you hear of incidents like this and this is because of the processes that have been put in place (again, many pioneered here in Phoenix) that allow these choppers to communicate with each other. It is fortunate however, this took place over Steele Indian School park on a business day, just a few feet to the south and they could have hit the 4041 N. Central building, a place where I used to work during my former career at Qwest. Again, the entire REC family is mourning the loss of the pilots and passengers and we have them and those in the media and aviation communities who were really close to them are in our thoughts.