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MQ-1L accident report released

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  • Air Combat Command Public Affairs
Mechanical error caused an MQ-1L Predator aircraft to crash during a training mission at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, June 22, 2006, according to an aircraft accident investigation report released today.

There were no injuries or fatalities from the accident. The aircraft was valued at $4,700,000. Other than the loss of the aircraft, no government property was damaged in the accident.

The Predator was assigned to the 11th Reconnaissance Squadron at Creech Air Force Base.

The accident investigation board determined the primary cause of the accident was a rapid loss of engine oil due to a loose oil filter. The board could not determine the precise cause for the loose oil filter, but it was most likely due to an improperly installed oil filter.

Additionally, the board found substantial evidence that an inadequately designed oil filter was a contributing factor in the mishap. The oil filter was not designed to lock in-place or with visible marks to help ensure proper installation.

Approximately five minutes into the training mission, the Predator experienced a rapid loss of engine oil followed by engine failure. The low altitude and loss of power prohibited the safe landing of the aircraft.

The pilot controlling the aircraft elected to intentionally steer the Predator into a hill next to the runway to avoid injuring ground personnel or harming equipment.

For more information, please contact the Air Combat Command Public Affairs Operations office at (757) 764-5007 or e-mail ACCPA.operations@langley.af.mil.