WNDU Heliport

Economic reasons. The heliport was closed after WNDU-TV ceased operating its news helicopter, 'Chopper 16', due to the high costs associated with fuel, maintenance, insurance, and pilot salary. The operational expenses became prohibitive for the local news market.

The heliport is permanently closed and no longer exists as an aviation facility. The site, located on the property of the WNDU-TV station at 54516 IN-933, is now used as part of the station's grounds and parking lot. There are no remaining markings or infrastructure indicating its past use as a heliport.

The WNDU Heliport was a private facility owned and operated by the WNDU-TV television station. Its sole purpose was to support Electronic News Gathering (ENG) for the station. WNDU was a pioneer in the region, launching its first news helicopter, a Hughes 300C known as 'Chopper 16', in 1979. For nearly 30 years, the helicopter provided live, aerial coverage of breaking news, major events, and traffic reports for the South Bend / 'Michiana' area, making it a well-known and significant part of the local media landscape.

There are no plans or prospects for reopening the heliport. The economic factors that led to its closure are still valid. Furthermore, the advancement and widespread adoption of inexpensive and versatile drone technology for aerial newsgathering have made dedicated news helicopters largely obsolete for most local television stations, making a return to helicopter operations highly unlikely.