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Croatian Kiowa helicopters return to air after deadly crash

Kiowa Warrior
Croatian Air Force file photo of a Kiowa Warrior

The Croatian Air Force is resuming flight operations with the Kiowa Warrior OH-58D helicopters after the entire fleet was grounded in response to a deadly Kiowa crash in January this year.

To remind, a Kiowa helicopter with a total of 520 flight hours crashed into the Adriatic Sea during regular training activities. Both pilots were killed in the accident.

The Croatian defense ministry has now announced that an inspection of the helicopters has been completed and that all operationally available units are fit for operations. The Croatian Air Force will resume all regular training and operational flight activities.

An investigation into the cause of the January 27 crash is still ongoing. According to Croatian media reports, the investigation could take up to a year to complete. Helicopter manufacturer Bell is said to have offered its assistance in the investigation.