Thief Topples Helicopter In Airport Break-In, FBI Investigating

At least four helicopters were damaged during the break-in at Sacramento Executive Airport.

Thursday, March 16, 2023 at 01:54 PM ET

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Four helicopters were damaged, including a Bell 429 helicopter that the thieves got off the ground and subsequently crashed. [Credit: Aung Kaung Myat]

Key Takeaways:

Intruders broke into Sacramento Executive Airport on March 15, crashing one of several damaged helicopters on the ramp and causing additional damage.
The FBI and Sacramento police are investigating the "incredibly rare" incident, with experts speculating complex motives beyond a simple joyride due to helicopter operational complexity.
The event highlights discussions on airport security and accountability through measures like cameras, as perpetrators face severe federal and state penalties for aircraft piracy and malicious damage.

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Early on the morning of March 15, someone broke into several helicopters at Sacramento Executive Airport (KSAC) and crashed one of them on the ramp. Four helicopters were damaged, including a Bell 429 helicopter that the thieves got off the ground and subsequently crashed.

The break-in occurred at about 5 a.m. Wednesday morning, the Sacramento Bee reported. Sacramento police are investigating the incident, along with the FBI.