Two Pilots Killed in Helicopter Crash While Battling California Wildfire

Two helicopter pilots have died after their aircraft crashed while conducting water-drop operations against the Dome Fire in California’s Yosemite National Park.
Two pilots were killed after a firefighting helicopter crashed while battling a wildfire in Yosemite National Park, California, authorities have confirmed.

The accident occurred on Sunday afternoon, September 20, 2026, as the helicopter was supporting efforts to contain the Dome Fire, which has been burning in rugged terrain inside the national park.

According to the Federal Aviation Administration, a Eurocopter AS32 helicopter crashed near Mariposa, California, at approximately 2:55 p.m. local time while conducting firefighting operations.

The two pilots were the only people aboard the aircraft.

Helicopter Was Dropping Water on Dome Fire

The aircraft was carrying out water-bucket drops when it went down southeast of Ostrander Lake, according to officials managing the wildfire response.

The helicopter was a Super Puma operated by aviation contractor Precision, which had been supporting aerial firefighting operations.

Authorities said the crash occurred in remote and difficult terrain, adding to the challenges faced by emergency personnel responding to the incident.

Precision confirmed the deaths of two members of its crew and expressed condolences to their families, colleagues and the wider firefighting community.

One of the pilots was initially identified as Greg King, an experienced wildfire pilot who had previously worked with the Alaska Division of Forestry and Fire Protection.

Subsequent reporting identified the second pilot as Ryan Cutter, another experienced helicopter pilot working with Precision.

Cause of Crash Under Investigation

The cause of the crash remains unknown.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have opened investigations into the accident, with the NTSB expected to lead the investigation.

Investigators are expected to examine the helicopter's wreckage, flight information, maintenance records, operating conditions and other evidence before determining what caused the aircraft to go down.

Officials have cautioned that information released during the early stages of an aviation investigation is preliminary and may change as additional evidence becomes available.

What Is the Dome Fire?

The Dome Fire was first reported on September 15, 2026, near Chilnualna Falls in Yosemite National Park.

It began at around 100 acres but expanded rapidly as firefighters encountered steep terrain, heavy vegetation and difficult access.

By the morning of September 21, the National Park Service reported that the fire had grown to approximately 3,222 acres and was 15% contained.

Around 581 personnel were assigned to the firefighting operation.

Ground crews and aircraft have been working together to contain the wildfire, with helicopters playing a particularly important role because some parts of the fire are difficult to reach by land.

Firefighters have been using helicopters for water drops, transporting crews and delivering supplies to remote sections of the fire.

Yosemite National Park Remains Open

Despite the wildfire, Yosemite National Park remains open and continues to operate largely normally.

However, authorities have closed several trails and areas close to the Dome Fire for public and firefighter safety.

Closures include the Chilnualna Falls Trail, Ostrander Lake Trail and several surrounding wilderness areas affected by the fire.

Officials have also warned that smoke from the wildfire may affect air quality and visibility in parts of Yosemite.

Visitors are being encouraged to check official National Park Service updates before travelling to affected areas.

Firefighting Aviation Carries Significant Risks

Aircraft are an important part of wildfire response in the western United States, particularly when fires burn across steep or inaccessible terrain.

Helicopter crews can perform repeated water drops close to active fire lines, transport firefighters and equipment and support emergency operations.

However, these missions can involve difficult flying conditions, including mountainous terrain, smoke, changing winds and reduced visibility.

The deaths of the two pilots have prompted tributes from wildfire agencies and members of the aviation community.

Authorities have not suggested that any particular factor caused the Yosemite crash, and investigators will determine the circumstances surrounding the accident.
Firefighters, meanwhile, continue working to bring the Dome Fire under control.