SAVOY, IL — A Robinson R22 BETA helicopter crashed on the runway at Willard Airport during a training flight around 10:30 a.m. on October 6, 2023, according to airport officials.
The helicopter was conducting routine training when it experienced a malfunction, leading to the incident. Two instructors were on board at the time; both sustained non-life-threatening injuries and were transported to a local hospital for evaluation.
Emergency responders, including the SAVOY Fire Department and local law enforcement, were dispatched immediately to the scene. The runway was temporarily closed for safety measures and to facilitate investigation efforts, but has since been reopened.
Authorities are investigating the crash with assistance from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The airport remains operational for commercial flights, and no other aircraft were involved in the incident.
Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.