The U.S. Air Force has concluded its investigation into the fatal crash of a A-29 light attack aircraft which killed a U.S. Navy F/A-18 pilot.
An A-29 Super Tucano light attack aircraft arrives at Moody Air Force Base, Georgia, April 24, 2018. The 81st Fighter Squadron received the aircraft to help continue the Afghan light air support training mission, which ultimately provides Afghan pilots with the capabilities of finding, tracking and attacking targets either on their own or in support of ground forces. The aircraft will eventually be used by the Afghan Air Force for close-air attack, air interdiction, escort and armed reconnaissance. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Erick Requadt)
The incident, which took place on Jun. 22, took place while the crew were participating in the Light Attack Experiment Phase II program.
The aircraft entered an uncontrolled spiral dive after releasing a GBU-12 on the Red Rio Bombing Range. The pilot ejected “below the recommended minimum altitude for uncontrolled flight, preventing the parachute from fully inflating”, according to the press release.
