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Corduroy Fire Helicopter Accident 2023

  • Incident Information:

    Attachment Size
    Corduroy Fire Helicopter Accident NTSB Preliminary Investigation Report.pdf (714.62 KB) 714.62 KB

  • Location:

    Arizona

  • Date:

    08/05/2023

  • Incident Type:

    Helicopter Incident or Accident

  • Description:

    An agency-contracted Type 1 Helicopter (CH-46) experienced a mechanical failure and loss of power while performing bucket operations in support of the Corduroy Fire located on the Alpine Ranger District, Apache-Sitgreaves National Forest, Arizona. The flight crew reacted by releasing the load of water, jettisoning the bucket, and performing a hard landing in a field. The helicopter rolled onto its side and subsequently was destroyed in a post-crash fire. The three crewmembers on board were able to walk away with minor bumps and bruises. All three were transported via ground to the hospital in Show Low, AZ. CT scans were performed on each crewmember, and all were cleared. 

    [This data was initially provided by the USFS Weekly Summary Report.]

    Helicopter Incident or Accident, Aviation

     

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