Eight pilots have been suspended from their flying duties after participating in a Fourth of July event where Apache helicopters flew low over a beach in South Carolina. The South Carolina National Guard confirmed the suspension, stating that the pilots are still being paid and are currently under review. The suspension applies only to flight operations, and the pilots continue to report for their regular daily duties in a non-flying capacity.
The incident occurred during Myrtle Beach's Salute from the Shore event on July 4, which drew thousands of beachgoers to celebrate with a flyover by various aircraft. This year's event featured Apache helicopters for the first time, and organizers had promised an exciting show. The pilots had intended to put on a display, with one senior pilot instructor saying they would aim to fly as low as feasibly possible.
Videos of the Apache helicopters flying low over the beach quickly circulated online, generating excitement and praise from social media users. However, the South Carolina National Guard is now reviewing the flight profile of the Apache helicopters that participated in the event. The specific actions being investigated are not yet clear.
The suspension of the pilots has sparked a backlash from South Carolina officials, who are rebuking the investigation. One local representative stated that the National Guard should drop the review and restore the pilots to their duties immediately. The representative expressed admiration for the pilots and appreciation for their display during the event.
The duration of the investigation and the pilots' suspension is not yet known. The South Carolina National Guard has not provided a timeline for the review or any further information on the specific actions being investigated.
