Midair Collision Between Pennsylvania State Police Helicopter and Small Plane Results in One Fatality and Two Injuries

A midair collision on Wednesday night involved a Pennsylvania State Police helicopter and a small airplane, resulting in the death of the pilot of the plane and injuries to two state troopers. The incident occurred near Carlisle Airport at approximately 7:50 p.m., as reported by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The police helicopter, a Bell 407, was conducting routine training when it collided with a Cessna 150 airplane. Pennsylvania State Police Acting Commissioner Lieutenant Colonel George Bivens stated that the Cessna veered to the right at the last moment, striking the helicopter's tail rotor and main rotor, leading to a crash. The investigation into the circumstances of the collision is ongoing, with federal investigators yet to determine a probable cause. The sole occupant of the Cessna did not survive, while the two state troopers were initially trapped but later freed and transported to a hospital, where they are expected to recover, according to Governor Josh Shapiro. The National Transportation Safety Board will oversee the investigation, with assistance from the FAA.