Pennsylvania State Police Helicopter Collides With Plane, Pilot Killed in Violent Crash
Pennsylvania State Police Helicopter Collides With Plane, Pilot Killed in Violent Crash
A small plane collided with a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter near Carlisle Airport in Cumberland County on Wednesday evening, killing the plane's pilot and injuring two state police pilots, authorities said.
The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) said the crash involved a Cessna 150 airplane and a Bell 407 helicopter. The incident happened shortly before 7 p.m. local time as the helicopter crew was conducting a routine training exercise at Carlisle Airport.
According to Pennsylvania State Police Acting Commissioner Lt. Col. George Bivens, the helicopter was hovering several feet above a grassy area near a runway when the small plane approached from behind. The plane then veered sharply to the right and struck the helicopter from the rear.
Officials described the collision as extremely violent. The helicopter lost its blades and tail boom before crashing onto its side. The Cessna was also severely damaged.
The pilot of the small plane, who was believed to be the aircraft's only occupant, died in the crash. Authorities initially withheld the pilot's identity pending notification of family members.
Two Pennsylvania State Police aviation-unit pilots aboard the helicopter were injured. Authorities identified them as Cpl. Bryce Corman and Trooper Jason Mills. Both survived and were reported to be in stable condition after being taken to a nearby medical center.
The Carlisle Airport does not have an air traffic control tower. Pilots operating there communicate with one another using a shared radio frequency. Investigators are expected to examine communications, available video and photographs, and the wreckage as they work to determine exactly what caused the collision.
The FAA and National Transportation Safety Board are investigating the crash. Officials have not yet determined the final cause of the accident.
This is a developing story and further details may emerge as investigators continue their work.

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