400 Chinook cargo helicopters grounded after engine fires
WASHINGTON – The Army said on Tuesday that it had temporarily grounded its fleet of about 400 Chinook cargo helicopters after a “small number” of engine fires were caused by fuel leaks.
Cynthia Smith, an Army spokesperson, said that the Army has determined the cause of the leaks and is now trying to find a solution to the issue. According to Smith, it’s possible that some aircraft won’t need any repairs at all, which means they could be able to get back in the air faster.
Over the last weekend, the fleet was forced to remain stationary. According to Smith, there have been no reports of injuries or fatalities as a result of the fires; however, the Army has temporarily grounded the fleet out of caution.
The Chinook is the primary heavy-lift helicopter used by the Army. It is used to carry troops as well as equipment, and it was a common sight throughout both the Afghanistan and Iraq wars.
