The Death and Life of Helicopter Commuting

The video explores the history of helicopter travel, focusing on New York Airways' operations during the Golden Age, the expansion to the Pan Am Building, and the tragic accident in 1977 that led to the decline of rooftop helicopter services. It discusses the challenges faced by the industry, including noise and safety concerns, and highlights modern attempts to revive airborne commuting with new technologies like Blade and EVTOL rotorcraft.

What was the primary purpose of New York Airways when it was established in 1953?

• Cargo transport

• Tourist sightseeing

• Passenger transport between Manhattan and airports

• Military operations

What unique feature did the Pan Am skyscraper offer to New York Airways?

• A luxury lounge

• A rooftop heliport

• A direct train connection

• A private airport

Which film was inspired by the Pan Am rooftop heliport?

• Blade Runner

• Star Wars

• The Matrix

• Inception

What was the cause of the 1977 helicopter accident on the Pan Am building?

• Pilot error

• Sabotage

• High cycle fatigue propagation

• Bad weather

What was the immediate action taken by the city after the 1977 helicopter accident?

• Increased helicopter flights

• Suspended all rooftop helicopter services

• Introduced new safety regulations

• Built a new heliport

What modern service is attempting to revive helicopter travel in New York City?

• Sky Taxi

• Blade

• Uber Air

• HeliFly

What future technology is expected to transform short-distance aviation?

• Autonomous drones

• Electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft

• Hyperloop

• Supersonic jets