Two helicopters have collided mid-air near McMinnville Airport in the US state of Oregon, triggering an emergency response and the closure of a major highway. The crash occurred at approximately 2pm local time on Thursday, southwest of Portland, with the number of people involved and their conditions still unknown.
What We Know About the McMinnville Helicopter Crash
The two helicopters struck each other in the air in the vicinity of McMinnville Airport, located southwest of Portland in Yamhill County. Emergency services were called to the scene following the collision, and authorities quickly moved to manage traffic and public safety in the surrounding area.
All lanes of Highway 233, a major road near the crash site, were closed after the incident was declared an aircraft emergency. The Oregon Department of Transportation advised motorists to seek alternative routes, reduce their speed if travelling through the area, and give way to responding emergency vehicles.
The number of people on board the two aircraft has not been confirmed, and details about any injuries or fatalities remain unclear at this stage. This is a similar pattern to other aviation incidents where initial information is limited as emergency services work to secure the scene.
Sheriff Confirms Incident But Details Remain Limited
Yamhill County Sheriff Sam Elliot confirmed via email that an aircraft-related incident had taken place near the airport, but said he was unable to provide further details while the investigation remained ongoing. No official confirmation of casualties has been issued by authorities at this stage.
McMinnville Airport had not responded to requests for comment at the time of publication.
Emergency Response and Road Closures
Emergency services descended on the area following the crash, with the aircraft emergency prompting the full closure of Highway 233. The Oregon Department of Transportation urged drivers to be alert and to clear the path for responding crews.
The cause of the mid-air collision is not yet known, and investigators are expected to provide further information as the situation develops. Mid-air collisions involving smaller aircraft are relatively rare but can have serious consequences depending on the altitude and circumstances of the impact.
What Happens Next
Authorities are continuing to investigate the circumstances of the crash near McMinnville Airport. Further details on the number of people involved, the condition of any survivors, and the identity of the aircraft are expected to be released as the investigation progresses.
Highway 233 closures were in place as of the time of this report, and the public was urged to avoid the area and follow directions from emergency personnel on the ground.
