The U.S. Army has temporarily suspended AH-64 Apache training flights. This decision follows a deadly crash in Texas involving a helicopter from Fort Hood. The incident occurred near Salado, Texas, during a routine training mission. The accident resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and ignited a wildfire, triggering evacuations. Fortunately, the helicopter did not hit any homes or structures.
The Army is investigating the cause of the crash to understand the underlying reasons before resuming training activities. The pilots involved were identified as Chief Warrant Officer 2 Deontre T. Huey, 34, and Warrant Officer Seth L. Olmstead, 25.
Apache Crashes and Safety Incidents
This crash at Fort Hood is one of several serious incidents involving Apache helicopters in recent years. In March 2024, Apaches crashed in Colorado and Washington, causing injuries to the crews. In February 2024, a crash in Mississippi led to two fatalities, prompting a helicopter safety pause. Another crash in Utah earlier that month resulted in two pilot injuries.
Back in April 2023, an Apache collision in Alaska resulted in the deaths of three soldiers. Several similar incidents throughout 2023 and 2022 highlight ongoing safety concerns, such as crashes in Washington and Alabama that left soldiers injured.
Comparison with Other U.S. Military Aircraft Incidents
The Apache’s recent safety record is concerning but not isolated among U.S. military aviation. For instance, in 2026, a U.S. Air Force KC-135 Stratotanker crashed in Iraq, and a B-52 Stratofortress crashed in California. In 2025, an F-35A Lightning II crash occurred in Alaska, and a Black Hawk had a collision near Washington, D.C.
Other incidents include a 2024 B-1B Lancer crash in South Dakota and multiple mishaps involving Marine Corps and Air Force aircraft in the preceding years. These crashes occurred across various locations, including Japan, the U.K., and Australia, highlighting a broader issue of military aviation safety challenges.
Persistent issues with various military aircraft signal a critical need for careful evaluation and improved safety protocols.
Palisades Village Reopens After Devastating Wildfire 
Historical Events in Chicago on August 15 
Groundbreaking Ceremony Highlights Community Support for Youth Center 
Scott Jennings Provides Update on Senator Mitch McConnell’s Health 
30,000 Pounds of Argentine Beef Recalled Due to Lack of Inspection 
Wisconsin House Races Heat Up as Parties Select Nominees