Tue, Nov 20, 2012
Jet Went Down In Florida Last Week
The pilot of an F-22 Raptor, assigned to the 43rd Fighter Squadron, safely ejected as the jet crashed November 15 around 1530 EST on Tyndall Air Force Base, FL, one-quarter mile east of the base's drone runway.
According to the Air Force, despite initial media speculation, there are no indications that point to the life support system leading to this incident or playing any role in this crash. A thorough investigation is being conducted in accordance with standard Air Force and Department of Defense policy. The pilot was conducting a routine training mission when first responders were alerted of a problem via an in-flight emergency call and were on scene fighting the fire within two minutes of the incident. "Our first responders reacted quickly and professionally due to the extensive training we conduct here at Tyndall," said Col. David Graff, 325th Fighter Wing commander. "In addition, the pilot received top-notch care from our medical group."
A safety team at Eglin AFB began interviewing witnesses, maintainers and other individuals immediately after the incident. "Right now, our number one priority is the safety of our Airmen and all involved as we secure the scene of the incident," Graff said.
The first step taken in the securing process was a sweep by explosive ordnance disposal Airmen for any parts of the aircraft that may be explosive. Follow-on steps include addressing environmental and biological hazards. Most modern aircraft are made of composite fibers, which can create health concerns for people on the scene when the plane catches fire.
First responders at Tyndall AFB are well trained and equipped to respond to aircraft crashes and minimize their effects on surrounding areas, Graff said. Throughout the initial and continued responses all personnel have worn the appropriate protective gear, and they will continue to do so until the immediate site of the crash is deemed safe.
While safety is the primary concern, preserving the accident scene is a critical part of the investigation. All evidence will be photographed and tagged to preserve all evidence for the official safety investigation board members.
(Image of accident site provided by the USAF)
FMI: www.af.mil
More News
"After Turning 70 years old twenty months ago, I began to think it was time to let someone younger take charge of the company..." Source: Bearhawk Aircraft's outgoing owner Mark Go>[...]
Aero Linx: Canadian Aerospace Medicine and Aeromedical Transport Association (CAMATA) Canadian Aerospace Medicine and Aeromedical Transport Association (CAMATA) is a national organ>[...]
Aero Linx: International Federation of Airworthiness (IFA) We aim to be the most internationally respected independent authority on the subject of Airworthiness. IFA uniquely combi>[...]
Also: Boeing Whistleblower, Joby Aviation, Aircraft Parts Bust, AF Crew Trains w USCG Our Airborne schedule will be interrupted next week as we live-stream AEA2024. AEA Dallas 2024>[...]
“It was a great team effort on all fronts. We appreciate the coordination between the air station, sector and Royal Caribbean. The effective coordination and communication al>[...]