Daijiworld Media Network - Pennsylvania

Pennsylvania, Aug 20: A pilot was killed and two Pennsylvania State Police troopers sustained injuries after a small aircraft collided with a state police helicopter at Carlisle Airport on Wednesday night.

The incident involved a Cessna 150 aircraft and a Pennsylvania State Police Bell 407 helicopter, officials said.

Acting Pennsylvania State Police Commissioner George L Bivens said the helicopter was conducting a training exercise near the runway when the Cessna reportedly veered off course while landing and struck the rear of the helicopter.

The collision caused the aircraft to break apart, while the helicopter rolled on the ground before coming to rest on its side.

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro confirmed that the two troopers aboard the helicopter were expected to survive. They were identified as Corporal Bryce Corman and Trooper Jason Mills.

Both troopers were initially trapped inside the helicopter. Corman managed to free himself and helped Mills escape from the wreckage.

Officials said both sustained minor injuries and were in stable condition. One trooper was expected to be discharged from hospital, while the other was kept overnight for observation.

The identity of the deceased pilot has not yet been released, pending notification of the next of kin.

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) have launched an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the collision.