A military inquiry is underway by the 101st Airborne Division to determine if members of its combat aviation brigade violated any FAA rules when they flew very low over Nashville’s Nissan Stadium during a game between the Tennessee Titans and the New Orleans Saints.
“The 101st Airborne Division is conducting a commander’s inquiry into the flyover that occurred on November 14,” according to Lt. Col. Kari McEwen, a spokeswoman for the elite division.
The FAA also confirmed it’s investigating but would not comment further. “The FAA is investigating this incident. We do not comment on pending investigations,” a spokesperson told CNN.
Four helicopters from the division flew extremely low over the stadium at the start of the event. Video appears to show them flying as low as the top of the upper seat deck.
The military inquiry was ordered by the commanding general of the division, Maj. Gen. Joseph McGee, and is expected to be quickly concluded, two military officials said. If violations of flight rules are found, McGee will then have to decide on further action.
A key question for the inquiry will be whether the unit violated safety protocols. Under FAA rules, helicopters are granted more flexibility on their flights than fixed wing aircraft because they can quickly maneuver, but they still must ensure safety for civilians on the ground.
Source : Nbcnewyork