MQ-1B ACCIDENT INVESTIGATION RELEASED

  • Published
  • By Public Affairs Directorate
  • Air Combat Command Headquarters

A lost datalink and the mishap crew's misperception of the aircraft's flight control settings caused an MQ-1B to crash March 8, 2016 in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, according to an Air Combat Command Abbreviated Accident Investigation Board report released today.

The MQ-1B, assigned to the 432nd Wing and operated by the 15th Attack Squadron at Creech AFB, Nev., was performing a combat support mission at the time of incident. During the mission, the remotely piloted aircraft experienced what is known as a "rack lock-up" and a lost return datalink. Resultant software and communication anomalies prevented aircrew control of the remotely piloted aircraft. During checklist procedures intended to reestablish a data link with the MQ-1B, the aircrew regained control of the aircraft; however, there were no discernable indications at the ground control station that the data link had been reestablished. Unaware that they were once again controlling the aircraft, the aircrew did not reposition their flight controls to sustain flight which led to an inadvertent descent and eventual impact with the ground.

The Board President cited unclear guidance on emergency procedures and checklists as a substantially contributing factor. Additionally, the unplanned presence of an instructor pilot distracted the mishap crew in the recovery effort.

The estimated cost of the aircraft and its munitions was $4,216,800. There were no injuries on the ground or damage to other government or private property.

For more information, contact Air Combat Command Public Affairs at (757) 764-5007 or via e-mail at accpa.operations@us.af.mil.