Officials release Predator accident report

Published March 17, 2004

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (ACCNS) -- Operator error caused an RQ-1L Predator remotely piloted aircraft to crash Dec. 11, 2003 in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility, according to Air Force officials.

Based on an Accident Investigation Board report released today by Air Combat Command, the pilot over-controlled the aircrafts pitch commands during a nose-high unusual attitude (or uncommanded aircraft position).

The aircraft abruptly pitched upward due to a software program anomaly and the pilot overcorrected to bring it back down. The abrupt input began a cycle of upward and downward movements that caused the aircraft to exceed its operating limits and eventually crash.

The Predator, which belonged to the 15th Reconnaissance Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., was supporting Operation Enduring Freedom. The Predator, valued at $3.3 million, was destroyed upon impact. There were no injuries, fatalities or damages to other property or equipment.

For more information, please contact Air Combat Command Public Affairs at (757) 764-5007 or e-mail acc.pam@langley.af.mil.