A tragic collision between two firefighting helicopters over a wildland fire in northern California on Sunday has resulted in the death of three members of the aircrew, as confirmed by the Fresno County Sheriff’s Office.
At approximately 5:45 p.m. PST Sunday, a CalFire S-2T airtanker and a privately-owned Erickson Air-Crane Helicopter collided while both were fighting a wildland fire near the North Fork of the Kings River. The fire had raged through nearby forestry since last week and had grown to cover at least 800 acres.
CalFire was able to use the very same S-2T airtanker to drop fire retardant on the wildland fire just one hour prior to the tragic collision.
The cause of the collision is still unknown. Both aircraft were equipped with cutting-edge laser and aerial GPS systems, so the FAA and NTSB are looking into the impact of human error in the accident.
The FAA has placed a temporary flight restriction in the area within a 3-mile radius of the crash site. Local authorities have requested that all pilots and airborne firefighters comply with this restriction in order to allow investigations to be conducted.
The deaths of the three aircrew members have sent shockwaves throughout the local community, and the families involved have asked for privacy during this difficult time.
CalFire released a statement extending their thoughts and prayers to the families of those lost in what they called a “heartbreaking accident.”
The tragedy has highlighted the dangers of wildland firefighting, as such incident demonstrate the risks that firefighters take to protect the land and its people. Aircraft hold a vital role in putting out such uncontrollable infernos, and the loss of life is a sobering reminder to maintain a level of safety and vigilance when operating large and volatile machinery.
It is expected that investigations into the accident will commence shortly and that a clear cause of the crash will be determined. In the interim, the authorities involved have asked for everyone to remember the lost and maintain respectful silence during this difficult time.
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