NTSB Investigates How an iPad May Have Contributed to Tragic Helicopter Crash

The National Safety Transportation Board (NTSB) is investigating a helicopter crash that occurred last year in Idaho, resulting in the loss of both the pilot and co-pilot’s lives. The NTSB has revealed that an iPad found near the cockpit may have played a role in the tragic accident.

In July 2022, Thomas Hayes and Jared Bird were on a CH-47D Series “Chinook” helicopter, assisting in firefighting efforts against the Moose Fire near Salmon, Idaho. Unfortunately, the helicopter crashed into the Salmon River, leading to their fatalities.

During the investigation, an iPad was discovered in the river near the cockpit. NTSB’s report indicates that the iPad might have accidentally fallen into the cockpit, potentially getting jammed beneath the pilot’s pedal. Distinct markings on the damaged iPad suggested its proximity to the pedals at the time of the crash. Investigators conducted tests using the damaged iPad and a similar helicopter to support their theory.

Clint Johnson, Chief of the NTSB’s Alaska Regional office, stated, “What the investigative team found, at the end of the day, was most likely that the iPad that was in the cockpit, fell in between the controls, the control pedals, the yaw control pedals, and ultimately played a part in the accident.”

While having iPads in the cockpit is common, the NTSB aims to raise awareness of this incident to prevent similar accidents in the future. The pilots involved were employed by ROTAK, an Anchorage-based company, and inquiries have been made to the company for their comments on the matter.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, msn.com, fox4news.com