NTSB Blames Pilot Error for Deadly California Fire Helicopter Collision

The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) has concluded that the deadly midair collision between two firefighting helicopters near Cabazon, California in August 2023 was caused by procedural errors and poor judgment by the Skycrane crew. The Skycrane helicopter entered the restricted fire airspace above the authorized altitude without clearance and then made a rapid descent into congested airspace, resulting in a collision with the Bell 407 helicopter. The crash killed all three on board the Bell 407: Cal Fire Assistant Chief Joshua Bischof, Fire Captain Tim Rodriguez, and pilot Tony Sousa. Communication difficulties due to mountainous terrain prevented clear radio contact with the air tactical group supervisor, contributing to the unauthorized entry and descent. No mechanical faults were found in either helicopter, emphasizing that human error and failure to follow Cal Fire protocols were the primary factors. Following the report, Cal Fire announced plans for enhanced pilot training and updated communication protocols to prevent similar incidents, while wrongful death lawsuits have been filed by the families of the victims.