ACC releases Predator accident report

Published Sept. 30, 2004

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (ACCNS) -- Crew error on the part of an instructor pilot and student pilot caused an MQ-1L Predator remotely piloted aircraft to crash during a training mission June 14 at Indian Springs Air Force Auxiliary Field, Nev., according to an Air Force report released today.

The instructor pilot allowed the student pilot to continue too far into a landing approach characterized by high sink rates, poor airspeed and aim point control, and poor runway alignment. The crew attempted to abort the landing too late, causing the rear stabilizers, known as tail planes, to impact the ground. Following this initial impact, the aircraft was rendered uncontrollable and crashed immediately. Damage to the Predator was valued at $4.2 million.

There were no injuries, fatalities or damage to other property or equipment. The Predator belonged to the 11th Reconnaissance Squadron at Indian Springs Air Force Auxiliary Field.

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