Washington, August 31: Amid concerns about engine fires, the US Army is grounding its entire fleet of Chinook helicopters, the Wall Street Journal has said citing officials.
US Army Materiel Command made the decision to ground the fleet out of an abundance of caution while they inspect over 70 Chinook helicopters that contain a part suspected to be linked to the problem, as per the report.
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US army officials were aware of a small number of engine fires with the helicopters, and the incidents didn't result in any injuries or deaths, the official said, as per the report.
The grounding of the Chinook helicopters could pose logistical challenges for American soldiers, depending on how long the order lasts.
Wall Street Journal, citing sources, said the grounding was targeted at certain Boeing Co. and took effect within about the last 24 hours. The army had about 400 helicopters in its fleet, one of the US officials said.
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"The safety of our soldiers is the army's top priority, and we will ensure our aircraft remain safe and airworthy," an Army spokeswoman said, as per the reports.
Chinook's specifications
The Chinook is a heavy-lift utility helicopter that is used by both regular and special army forces, ferrying more than four dozen troops or cargo. It has been a staple of the army's helicopter fleet for six decades. The Chinook is made by aerospace company Boeing.
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PTC News with ANI inputs
