V-22 Downwash Injures N.Y. Spectators

V-22 Downwash Injures N.Y. Spectators

(Source: US Marine Corps; issued May 31, 2010)

NEW YORK — Capt. Lauren Schulz, deputy director, Headquarters Marine Corps, Division of Public Affairs, New York City, administers first aid to a guest at a helicopter raid demonstration at Clove Lakes Park, Staten Island, New York, May 31.

The MV-22 Osprey’s rotor wash caused branches to fall as it landed at the park. Marines from the raid force immediately rushed to assist those affected by the falling debris.

Ten spectators were treated at a local hospital and released within hours.

(EDITOR’S NOTE: A new illustration of the danger posed by the downwash of the V-22’s oversized rotors, which critics say is especially dangerous on carrier flight decks. Other helicopters taking part in the demonstration posed no problems to spectators.)

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