US Army attack helicopters crashing at historically high rate amid mechanical issues

US Army attack helicopters, specifically the AH-64 Apache, are experiencing an unusually high rate of major crashes during fiscal year 2026, largely attributed to widespread mechanical problems with the aircraft's transmission. Since October, there have been five major (Class A) accidents, with the current fiscal year on track to be one of the worst for Apache flight safety since the E-model was introduced in 2011. This elevated crash rate, estimated at approximately 6.24 per 100,000 flight hours, closely mirrors the severe rate observed in fiscal year 2024.

Internal Army safety communications have highlighted significant transmission issues capable of compromising critical systems such as the tail rotor, electrical power, and hydraulics, which can lead to a sudden loss of control. In response to these concerns, approximately 80 Apache helicopters with potentially faulty transmissions were identified and temporarily grounded.

A recent deadly crash in Texas, which resulted in two soldier fatalities, prompted the Army to temporarily halt routine training flights for Apache pilots; however, this suspension has since concluded. While mechanical failures are a primary focus for the current spike in accidents, an Army flight safety newsletter indicated that human error has contributed to over half of all Apache incidents this year, including less severe mishaps.