In the worst-timed ad ever, the national group-discount Web site Groupon is offering cut-rate helicopter rides 10 days after a tourist helicopter crashed into the East River, killing two women.
The Chicago-based company e-mailed subscribers a gift certificate Friday offering up to $165 off “deluxe helicopter tours” as its “daily deal.”
More than 100 people have bought the coupon valued at $220 to take a ride from the Downtown Manhattan Heliport on Pier 6, over the Statue of Liberty, Central Park and the Empire State Building.
But pols say the discount should be grounded.
“This deal should never have taken off in the first place — especially one week after we were reminded of the unnecessary risk of tourist flights,” said state Sen. Daniel Squadron (D-Brooklyn/Manhattan).
Groupon spokeswoman Julie Mossler acknowledged the timing was “unfortunate” but said its deal was set up weeks in advance.
On Oct. 4, a privately owned chopper plunged into the East River, killing one and injuring three. Another victim died Wednesday from her injuries.
Groupon’s partner in the deal, Manhattan Helicopters, did not return a call for comment, but Mossler said the company has a “sterling record of safety.”