MYRTLE BEACH, SC (WMBF) – The South Carolina Army National Guard says eight Apache helicopter pilots who flew in this year’s Salute from the Shore have been suspended from flight duties.
The Guard said the suspension is temporary and will remain in place while officials review the flight profile.
The pilots are still reporting for their regular duties in a non-flying capacity
Following the announcement, a spokesperson for the guard released a statement on the suspension.
We sincerely appreciate the strong community support for our service members and the enthusiasm surrounding the “Salute from the Shore” event. We are also aware of the public feedback and concerns regarding the temporary suspension of the Apache pilots involved. We want to assure the community that a temporary suspension from flight duties is a routine administrative measure whenever a flight profile is under review. This is not punitive, the Soldiers are still in good standing with the South Carolina National Guard. As previously noted, these service members continue to report for their regular daily duties in a non-flying capacity while the review takes place. This standard procedure ensures a fair and objective process for everyone involved. The South Carolina Army National Guard holds its aviators to the highest standards of professional conduct and aviation regulations. Our absolute top priority is, and always will be, the safety of our personnel and the communities we fly over. Conducting thorough reviews when questions arise is how we maintain those high safety standards and ensure we can safely participate in future public events. We appreciate the community’s patience, understanding, and continued support as we conduct a comprehensive review of this event. Thank you for keeping our communities informed. I appreciate your help.
Officials said they cannot provide further details or speculate on specific allegations, including questions about flight altitude or Federal Aviation Administration regulations, citing standard military policy and the ongoing review.
“The safety of our personnel and the communities we fly over remains our top priority, and we take all reports regarding flight safety seriously,” the Guard said.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE: Annual Salute from the Shore returning to Grand Strand
The Salute from the Shore event features flybys from vintage military aircraft flying over the Grand Strand beaches on Independence Day.
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