Two helicopters collided in midair near the McMinnville Municipal Airport in Oregon on Friday, according to the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The FAA confirmed that three people were aboard the aircraft at the time of the incident.

Details surrounding the cause of the midair collision remain under investigation. The National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) is expected to lead the investigation into the accident, with the FAA providing support.

Emergency services responded to the scene following reports of the collision. Information regarding the condition of the individuals on board has not yet been released. The exact location of the crash, beyond its proximity to the airport, is also pending further details.

The incident is likely to prompt a thorough review of air traffic control procedures and pilot communications in the area. Investigations into midair collisions are typically complex, involving analysis of flight data recorders, witness accounts, and aircraft maintenance records.

McMinnville Municipal Airport serves as a general aviation airport and is home to various flight training schools and private aircraft operations. The airspace around smaller airports can sometimes present unique challenges for pilots, especially during periods of high traffic or adverse weather conditions.

While the FAA has confirmed the number of people on board, further information regarding the make and model of the helicopters involved, as well as the specific flight paths they were on, is expected to be released as the investigation progresses.

Midair collisions, though rare, are among the most catastrophic aviation accidents. They often result in significant damage to both aircraft and pose severe risks to those on board. The NTSB will meticulously examine all factors that may have contributed to this event.

Officials have not yet provided a timeline for the completion of the investigation, but such inquiries typically take months to conclude as investigators work to determine the probable cause of the accident.