F-16 Pilot Safely Recovered Aircraft After Engine Failure

U.S. Air Force Capt. Harry “Butcher” McMahon was presented the 2023 Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy by Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin in a ceremony at the Pentagon on September 26.

The trophy is the highest safety achievement award given and is the only individual flight safety award presented personally by the chief of staff.

The award is named after 1st Lt. Koren Kolligian Jr, an Air Force pilot who was declared missing after his T-33 Shooting Star disappeared off the California coast in September 1955.

McMahon is an F-16 pilot assigned to the 80th Fighter Squadron, 8th Fighter Wing at Kunsan Air Base, South Korea. On July 28, 2023, McMahon was on a training sortie with his flight lead, Maj. Michael “Flint” Sarno when he heard a “thump” from his engine. The two pilots decided to return to base as a precaution. However, a second, louder thump from the engine also resulted in a loss of thrust and decreased engine performance and temperature. The emergency power unit activated and provided electrical and hydraulic power to maintain flight.

McMahon immediately turned to the nearest suitable airfield as tried to restart his engine. The engine never regained enough usable power and force him to land using a “flameout approach” to avoid colliding with two Korean F-35s taking off from the opposite direction.

Gen Allvin praised McMahon for his exceptional skills and quick decision making, which  prevented injuries and saved a combat asset. Allvin commented, “Capt. McMahon exemplifies what it means to be an American Airman and aviator. When facing danger, he was decisive and cool-headed, allowing him to successfully problem-solve and navigate a life-threatening situation. This is the highest safety achievement award that we give. It’s not just about safety. It’s about operational effectiveness.”

FMI:  www.af.mil/