Navy Pilots Hospitalized After Florida Helicopter Incident

Navy Helicopter Incident Scene

News Summary

Two Navy pilots were hospitalized following a hard landing of a TH-73A Thrasher helicopter during a training exercise in East Milton, Florida. Both pilots, an instructor and a student, are in stable condition, as confirmed by the Chief of Naval Air Training’s spokesperson. An investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding the incident, which has caused traffic disruptions in the area. The helicopter remains at the site for environmental assessments, and future developments regarding land usage are being discussed between local authorities and the U.S. Navy.

Florida – Two Navy pilots have been hospitalized following a helicopter “hard landing” on June 2 at Outlying Field Santa Rosa, situated in East Milton, Florida. Both pilots, an instructor and a student from Helicopter Training Squadron EIGHTEEN, are currently in stable condition but remain under medical care.

The Chief of Naval Air Training (CNATRA) spokesperson, Morgan Galvin, confirmed their stable status but withheld further medical information due to HIPAA regulations. An investigation is currently underway to determine the specifics of the incident, which involved a TH-73A Thrasher helicopter from Training Air Wing FIVE, responsible for advanced helicopter training.

Initial reports suggest that the helicopter experienced difficulties while attempting to land on one of the helicopter pads at the outlying field. It remains unclear whether the helicopter was scheduled to land or if the pilots aborted their mission because of issues encountered while airborne. This uncertainty was noted by Jamie Coffey, Public Affairs Officer for NAS Whiting Field.

As of June 3, the damaged helicopter has been defueled and remains at the incident site while environmental assessments are conducted prior to its removal. Highway 87, which runs just south of Interstate 10, has been blocked due to this incident, impacting local traffic.

Details of the Incident

The incident occurred during a training exercise at an important military training site. OLF Santa Rosa is one of several outlying fields supporting the activities of NAS Whiting Field, the busiest Naval Air Station in the world. The base occupies approximately 12,000 acres and helps facilitate around 250 aircraft, contributing between 120,000 and 160,000 flight hours annually.

Approximately 17% of all Navy flight hours and 12% of Navy and Marine Corps flight hours are logged at NAS Whiting Field each year, showcasing the significance of this base for military aviation training.

Future Considerations and Land Development

In addition to the ongoing investigation and recovery efforts related to this incident, OLF Santa Rosa has been under consideration for a potential land swap deal. This arrangement, being discussed between Santa Rosa County and the U.S. Navy, aims to promote industrial growth in the area near Interstate 10. Such development could bolster local economic growth, presenting new opportunities for businesses and residents in the region.

The Navy has not provided new updates regarding the length of the investigation or the timeline for the recovery of the helicopter. Local authorities are managing the traffic disruptions created by the incident, ensuring public safety while the situation unfolds.

The CNATRA continues to oversee all operational and environmental aspects of the situation, focusing on a comprehensive assessment and ensuring that necessary protocols are followed during this incident’s investigation.