NEWBURGH, New York — Fresh insights have emerged regarding the small aircraft incident that occurred on Monday night when a plane plunged into the Hudson River near Newburgh, New York.
The individuals on board were identified as Liam Darcy, a 31-year-old certified flight instructor, and his 17-year-old student, as reported by officials. Darcy, affiliated with Long Island Flying, has been mentoring this young aviator for roughly 18 months.
The ill-fated Cessna 172 set out from Long Island MacArthur Airport at approximately 6:30 p.m. for a planned night training flight. Investigators indicate that the student pilot was primarily operating the controls during their northward journey towards the Tappan Zee Bridge, before they made a stop-and-go landing at Stewart International Airport around 7:30 p.m. This maneuver is a standard training drill where the plane lands, halts completely, and then takes off again without refueling.
After departing Stewart and commencing their return trip to Long Island, the plane encountered mechanical difficulties near the U.S. Military Academy, according to authorities. Instructor Darcy assumed control and sent out a mayday signal, attempting to redirect the aircraft back to Stewart. However, the plane’s engine failed—a cause yet to be determined—resulting in the aircraft gliding.
Realizing they couldn’t make it back to the runway, Darcy opted to execute an emergency landing on the Hudson River.
As recorded in airport tower communications, they were heard saying, “We’re going into the Hudson River, I don’t think we are gonna make the airport.”
The plane headed north toward the NewburghBeacon Bridge, made a 180-degree turn, and touched down on an ice-covered stretch of the river roughly 200 feet from the western shoreline.
Officials said Stewart air traffic controllers played a critical role, helping guide the aircraft closer to the riverbank.
Both individuals were able to self-extricate from the aircraft. They swam about 50 feet through frigid water to reach the shoreline, then sought temporary shelter inside a nearby building while awaiting emergency responders.
Gov. Kathy Hochul referred to the incident as “another Miracle on the Hudson.”
The preliminary investigation indicates no signs of intoxication or impairment, and nothing of a criminal nature. The incident appears accidental, officials said.
The investigation remains ongoing in partnership with the Federal Aviation Administration, which is responsible for the case. FAA Teterboro is gathering information, and authorities are also working with the National Transportation Safety Board, the U.S. Coast Guard, and the New York State Department of Environmental Conservation.
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