MQ-1B Predator accident report released Published Sept. 3, 2008 Air Combat Command Public Affairs LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. -- Failure of the throttle body assembly caused the crash of an MQ-1B Predator remotely piloted aircraft on April 9, 2008, at Joint Base Balad, Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. The cause of the crash was released by Air Combat Command today following the conclusion of an Accident Investigation Board report. The $5 million Predator, assigned to the 361st Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron at Joint Base Balad, Iraq, was destroyed. There were no injuries or damages to other property or equipment. According to the investigation, failure of the throttle body assembly, which supplies fuel and air to the aircraft's engine, caused a restriction in the airflow, resulting in engine failure. The aircraft experience a blockage in the intake air circuit and departed straight and level flight. The Predator was destroyed in place and was not salvageable. For more information, please contact Air Combat Command Public Affairs at (757) 764-5007 or e-mail accpa.operations@langley.af.mil.