Oregon flight school loses instructor in midair helicopter collision

Three people lost their lives on Thursday afternoon when two helicopters collided midair near McMinnville, Oregon. The accident occurred around 2:15 p.m. near Lafayette Highway and Southeast Stringtown Road, according to the Yamhill County Sheriff’s Office. The site is located just outside the perimeter of McMinnville Municipal Airport.

The National Transportation Safety Board identified the aircraft as an Airbus Helicopters AS350B2 and a Robinson R22. Jerry Trimble Helipters, a local flight training company, confirmed on social media that one of its aircraft was involved. The company operates flight training services in the region.

Sheriff Sam Elliott provided details at a news conference on Thursday night. He stated that the Robinson R22 carried a 22-year-old flight instructor from Texas and a student pilot from the United Kingdom. Elliott identified the instructor as Maddie Aasbo. The student’s name has not been released while officials notify the family.

The third victim was 38-year-old Tyler Sturdevant of Newberg. He was aboard the Airbus AS350B2 at the time of the impact. A witness standing on the roof of a nearby barn saw the two helicopters strike each other before hitting the ground. The witness immediately called 911 to report the crash.

The National Transportation Safety Board is currently investigating the cause of the collision. The road closure near the crash site remains in effect while crews clear the area. Local officials are coordinating with emergency responders to manage traffic and secure the scene.