The U.S. Army has announced a suspension of non-critical aviation flight units for training following two fatal helicopter crashes in the past month. Lt. Col. Terence Kelley, an Army spokesperson, said the suspension of air operations was effective immediately, with units grounded until they complete the training. The Army said in a news release that the safety of their aviators is their top priority, and the stand down is an important step to make certain they are doing everything possible to prevent further accidents. It is unclear when the stand down will be lifted.
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On Thursday, two U.S. Army helicopters crashed while returning from a training flight in central Alaska, resulting in the death of three soldiers and the injury of a fourth. The names of those killed are being withheld until 24 hours after relatives can be notified, and the cause of the crash is currently under investigation.
Two U.S. Army helicopters crashed Thursday in Alaska while returning from a training flight, with each carrying two people. First responders were on scene at the crash site near Healy, and the incident is under investigation. The crash is the second involving military helicopters in the state this year.