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Nik Wallenda talks about new stunt for Niagara Falls

Posted at 2:47 PM, May 17, 2017
and last updated 2017-05-17 18:10:28-04

In an interview with 7 Eyewitness News Reporter Ed Reilly, famous daredevil Nik Wallenda talks about a new stunt planned for June 15th where Nik's wife, Erendira Wallenda, will hang from a helicopter by only her teeth and toes while the helicopter flies over Niagara Falls.

The stunt is meant to mark the 5-year anniversary of Nik Wallenda's famous wire walk across the Falls on June 15, 2012.  Millions of people watched the event worldwide as it was broadcast live by ABC-TV.  It is estimated that well over 100,000 people turned out in person to watch the wire walk on both sides of the border.

Mayor Paul Dyster said the City of Niagara Falls will ask the City Council on Friday to approve $35,000 for the event.  It will match $35,000 already approved by the Niagara County Legislature.

John Percy, from Destination Niagara USA, said promotion for the stunt will begin as soon as details are finalized - which is expected shortly.  It is hoped the helicopter stunt will also spark interest in large numbers of people coming to Niagara Falls both now and in the future.

The FAA issued the following statement regarding the Wallenda proposed stunt:

The Wallendas have not filed a request with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to fly over Niagara Falls on June 15.  If they do, the FAA would have to approve the flight over the falls and inspect the helicopter to ensure the operator uses the proper safety equipment.  .