Nearly A Half-Mil In Damage... But Will The Deductable Will Cover It?

Officials investigating the March 17 midair collision of two F-15C Eagle aircraft on the Nevada Test and Training Range near Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., have determined the accident occurred when one of the pilots failed to coordinate his flight path with that of his lead pilot.

The mishap pilot ejected and sustained minor injuries before his aircraft was destroyed when it crashed into the ground. The aircraft was valued at more than $31 million. The lead pilot was not injured and landed safely after assisting with search and rescue operations.

Damage to his F-15 was determined to be $479,632. Both aircraft were assigned to the 422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron at Nellis.

According to the Accident Investigation Board report released June 20 by Air Combat Command officials, the pilots were participating in an air combat maneuvering training mission when the collision occurred. The maneuver is a basic combat fighter pilot mission in which two aircraft team up to engage a third aircraft simulating the role of an enemy aircraft.

The mishap pilot, who was designated the supporting fighter for the engagement, misjudged his leader's position and failed to coordinate his flight path after taking a simulated shot at the simulated enemy aircraft.

FMI: www.af.mil