Roman Atwood says the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has opened an investigation after a viral helicopter stunt video filmed with fitness influencer Ashton Hall went viral. The clip, which spread widely across YouTube, Instagram and X, showed Hall jumping from Atwood’s helicopter while it hovered close to the ground before sprinting alongside the aircraft as it continued moving forward.
The video was filmed as part of Hall’s ongoing social media content focused on fitness, lifestyle and high-energy challenges. During the sequence, Hall exited the helicopter while it remained in motion at a low altitude over an open field. Another individual riding a dirt bike could also be seen moving alongside the helicopter during portions of the clip.
The footage quickly gained traction online because the helicopter appeared so close to the ground, and because Hall was filmed running near the aircraft’s landing skids shortly after it exited. Short clips of the stunt circulated widely on social media, where viewers debated whether the maneuver had been carefully coordinated or unnecessarily risky.
FAA is reportedly reviewing the flight
In a recent vlog update, Atwood stated that the FAA has contacted the mechanics responsible for maintaining the helicopter and requested documentation tied to inspections, maintenance history and certification records. According to him, the aircraft is properly maintained and registered under experimental helicopter regulations.
Atwood also addressed questions surrounding private pilot rules, explaining that he was not paid to fly Hall or participate in the video. FAA regulations generally prohibit private pilots from operating compensated commercial flights without additional licensing, although investigations may also examine whether monetized content or sponsorships indirectly constitute compensation.
At the moment, the FAA has not publicly announced any enforcement action, and the investigation appears to still be ongoing.
Featured image courtesy: Roman Atwood