South Carolina Apache Pilots Reinstated to Flight Duty

The temporary grounding of pilots who operated eight AH-64 Apache helicopters during the “Salute from the Shore” event in South Carolina on July 4 has been lifted.

The South Carolina Army National Guard had temporarily removed the pilots from flight duties as an administrative measure while reviewing the low-altitude flight profile conducted along the coastline. Officials previously stated that the action was not disciplinary and that the pilots continued performing non-flying duties.

U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth commented on the issue, saying, “We will get this fixed. Carry on, patriots.”

Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell announced on July 10 that the suspension from flight duties for all pilots involved had been lifted with immediate effect.