Tragedy struck Yosemite National Park as two pilots, Ryan Cutter and Greg King, lost their lives when their firefighting helicopter crashed while actively engaged in water bucket drops on the raging Dome Fire. The aircraft, a Super Puma operated by Precision Helicopters, went down Sunday near a lake during suppression efforts, with the two pilots being the sole occupants. Both Cutter, who had a significant tenure with Precision Helicopters, and King, an experienced wildland firefighter with extensive ties to the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection, were deeply mourned by their colleagues and loved ones. Precision Helicopters and the Alaska Division of Forestry & Fire Protection released statements honoring the pilots’ dedication and bravery. The crash occurred amidst an ongoing effort by approximately 580 personnel to contain the Dome Fire, which had already consumed roughly 4.7 square miles and was only 15% contained. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) are launching investigations into the incident, with the NTSB leading the inquiry.
Adapted from: Travel News Today on Fox News
