ROTAK names two pilots lost in Chinook crash
The company has also confirmed that it will suspend operations using its other CH-47, which was being employed in anti-wildfire operations in Alaska, ‘until further notice’
ROTAK Helicopter Services has confirmed the names of two of the company’s pilots who were onboard the CH-47D Chinook when it crashed on Thursday 21 July near Salmon, Idaho while helping to contain a wildfire at the Salmon-Challis National Forest. The pilots’ condition was previously unconfirmed following the crash.
Thomas Hayes, 41, of Post Falls, Idaho, and Jared Bird, 36, of Anchorage, Alaska, were the only occupants of the helicopter when it went down, and were described by Ely Woods, ROTAK’s General Manager as being ‘the absolute best our country has to offer’.
“Both were decorated veterans, hard workers, and outstanding pilots. Our hearts go out to their families, friends, and loved ones. We are devastated by this incredible loss,” he added.
Before joining ROTAK, Hayes previously worked for a range of operators including HEMS provider Life Flight Network, regional airline Horizon Air; heavy lift specialist Billings Flying Service; and the USFS. He also served in a range of roles with the US Army over the course of two decades, including as a test pilot, CH-47 pilot and as a helicopter mechanic.
No additional details are currently known about Bird’s career at the present time.
Oliver Cuenca
Oliver Cuenca is a Junior Editor at AirMed&Rescue. He was previously a News and Features Journalist for the rail magazine IRJ until 2021, and studied MA Magazine Journalism at Cardiff University. His favourite helicopter is the AW169 – the workhorse of the UK air ambulance sector! He also led the creation of Waypoint: The AirMed&Rescue podcast, serving as its Production Editor and co-host.