Helicopter Catches Fire During Training at Camp Pendleton, Crew Safe

A CH-53E Super Stallion helicopter caught fire during a routine training mission at California's Camp Pendleton on Friday, December 20, 2024. NEW YORK POST The incident occurred at approximately 4:11 p.m. when the aircraft experienced an engine fire, necessitating an emergency landing. All four military personnel on board evacuated safely without injuries. Despite their efforts, they were unable to extinguish the flames, which persisted for about an hour. The fire was eventually subdued by local first responders and Marine Corps personnel. Authorities have requested that the public avoid the area to allow emergency responders to operate safely. NEW YORK POST This incident adds to a series of military helicopter accidents during training missions over the past year. Notably, five Marines from the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing lost their lives in a helicopter crash near San Diego earlier this year. Additionally, two National Guard soldiers died in a training accident in Mississippi, and a crash near Texas' southern border resulted in the deaths of two soldiers and one Border Patrol agent. Furthermore, five Army special operations soldiers were killed in a helicopter crash during a routine air refueling training mission in the Mediterranean Sea. NEW YORK POST The CH-53E Super Stallion involved in the Camp Pendleton incident is based at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, located approximately 40 miles from the site of the emergency landing. The cause of the engine fire is currently under investigation. Marine officials have categorized the event as a mishap and an emergency landing, clarifying that it was not a crash. NBC PALM SPRINGS The Marine Corps emphasizes the importance of safety and thorough investigations following such incidents to prevent future occurrences. As the investigation continues, more information will be released to provide clarity on the circumstances surrounding the engine fire.