Home / Disasters and Accidents / Fatal Apache Crash Sparks Wildfire, Halts Training
Fatal Apache Crash Sparks Wildfire, Halts Training
24 Aug
Summary
- Five major accidents involving Apache helicopters occurred since October 2025.
- A recent fatal crash resulted in two deaths and a significant wildfire.
- Apache helicopter training flights were temporarily halted due to transmission issues.
The US Army has reported a significant increase in Apache helicopter accidents since October 2025, marking the beginning of fiscal year 2026. Five major accidents have occurred during this period, with one particularly devastating incident resulting in the deaths of two crew members and sparking a substantial wildfire. These incidents have prompted a closer examination of the aircraft's safety record.
Apache helicopter training flights were temporarily suspended on August 14, 2026, following these events. The grounding was a precautionary measure implemented after serious transmission issues were identified in 2024, which in some cases could lead to the failure of the tail rotor. Flights resumed on August 20, 2026, after initial investigations and safety reviews.
The AH-64 Apache model, which entered service in 2011, has a history of incidents, with fiscal year 2024 recording the highest number of accidents at nine. The definition of a "major accident" includes human casualties, permanent disabilities, total aircraft destruction, or losses exceeding $2.5 million.
