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Apache helicopter pilots suspended after South Carolina July 4 flyover
NewsNation • • nation
Key Points:
- The South Carolina National Guard temporarily suspended eight Apache helicopter pilots following a July 4 flyover during the "Salute from the Shore" event, which included helicopters for the first time.
- The suspension is part of a routine investigation into the flight profile of the helicopters, with officials emphasizing the priority of safety for personnel and communities.
- FAA regulations require fixed-wing aircraft to maintain a minimum altitude of 500 feet over open water, but these rules do not apply to helicopters; the complaint leading to the investigation did not specify a reason.
- Republican Rep. Russell Fry publicly criticized the suspensions, calling for the pilots to be reinstated immediately and praising the flyover as a patriotic display enjoyed by millions.
- The suspensions have since been lifted, according to the editor's note.
