Storm on Fort Carson causes significant damage to helicopters
Multiple helicopters were damaged during a storm on Fort Carson, Colo., Thursday night.
A popular social media page, “usawtfm” posted photos showcasing helicopters on their side.
On Aug. 2, 2024 Fort Carson released the following press release:
At approximately 8 p.m. Aug. 1, a significant weather event occurred at Butts Army Heliport. Initial reports indicate the event caused damage to multiple aircraft belonging to the 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division.
“This weather event had a significant impact to our fleet. I am grateful there were no injuries,” said Col. Nicholas Ploetz, commander, 4th Combat Aviation Brigade. “Our Soldiers are resilient and will do what is necessary to recover our equipment and continue to perform our mission.”
A variety of aircraft are damaged to include Apaches, Chinooks, and Black Hawks. Facilities on the heliport have minor damage. Currently, there are no environmental impacts reported.
There will be a thorough investigation to assess the damage.
We appreciate your patience as we work to gain a better understanding about the impact of this incident.
According to several media outlets, US Army 4th Combat Aviation Brigade, 4th Infantry Division personnel were in the midst of “heavy operations” when an unforecasted storm hit. Some of them had to hastily shut down and run for safety.
However, Fort Carson has not provided specific details about the exact number of aircraft affected.
Butts Army Heliport
The primary mission for Butts Army Heliport is to provide fully integrated fixed base helicopter operations and support for all Army aviation assets assigned to, or training on Fort Carson.
Heliport operations and services include Base Flight Operations, Control Tower/Ground Approach Control Facility, USAF weather, Heliport Safety, Airspace Management, Flight Simulator, Rapid Refuel Facility, and Crash/Fire/Rescue station.
The heliport has an FAA approved instrument approach. The heliport also provides UH-60 A/L, Longbow Crew Trainer, Aviation Combined Arms Tactical Trainer and AH-64 Synthetic Flight Training Systems for all Fort Carson aviation units and specific National Guard.
Photo by usawtfm
