Armed AV-8B caught fire in Bahrain last year

Two U.S. Marine Corps AV-8Bs both encountered emergencies during a mission in Bahrain last year. One of the aircraft caught fire on a taxiway and the jet was armed.

U.S. Marines with Marine Attack Squadron (VMA) 311 “Tomcats,” attached to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command (SPMAFTF-CR-CC) 19.2, conduct maintenance on an AV/8B Harrier in Bahrain, Oct. 7, 2019. The SPMAGTF-CR-CC is designed to move with speed and precision to support operations throughout the Middle East. (U.S. Marine Corps photo by Sgt. Robert G. Gavaldon)


The other Harrier had taken off and encountered technical issues as well. Because of the other mishap aircraft on the ground, it had to circle while waiting for the clearance to land. It ended up landing with just five minutes of fuel remaining.

Both pilots had to thank Air Traffic Controller 2nd Class Drey Aynes who was on duty in the tower and help direct the emergency crew to handle the situation.

Although the article did not state which Harrier unit was involved, VMA-311 was assigned to Special Purpose Marine Air Ground Task Force-Crisis Response-Central Command (SPMAFTF-CR-CC) 19.2 in Bahrain last year.

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