U.S. Army Grounds Aviators for Training After Fatal Helicopter Crashes

Safety stand down follows accidents in Alaska and Kentucky that killed 12 soldiers

The U.S. Army has ordered a temporary grounding of all aviation units for mandatory training after two fatal helicopter crashes claimed the lives of 12 soldiers in Alaska and Kentucky within the past month.

The suspension of air operations took effect immediately, with active-duty units required to complete training between May 1 and 5, while Army National Guard and Reserve units have until May 31. “The move grounds all Army aviators, except those participating in critical missions, until they complete the required training,” the Army said in a statement.

On 27 April, two helicopters from the 1st Attack Battalion, 25th Aviation Regiment collided near Healy, Alaska, killing three soldiers and injuring a fourth. The unit, part of the 11th Airborne Division known as the “Arctic Angels,” was returning from training at the time of the crash. Investigators from Fort Novosel, Alabama, were dispatched to the site.

Earlier incidents include a February accident in Talkeetna, Alaska, where two soldiers were injured when an Apache helicopter rolled after takeoff, and a March crash near Fort Campbell, Kentucky, in which nine soldiers died when two Black Hawk medical evacuation helicopters collided during a nighttime training exercise.

Army Chief of Staff General James McConville emphasized the importance of the stand down, stating: “The safety of our aviators is our top priority, and this stand down is an important step to make certain we are doing everything possible to prevent accidents and protect our personnel.”

While investigations into both recent crashes continue, the Army has said there is no indication of a direct link between the incidents.

Source: AP & XAirForces News, 29 April 2023

Photo: US Army grounds aviators. (Photo by U.S. Army)

Editor: Chris McInerney (North American ©XAirForces News Editor from USA and Canada)

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