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F-16 pilot ejects as he crash lands at Lamar Airport
June 29, 2005 (by
Lieven Dewitte) -
The pilot of an F-16 block 30 had to eject Tuesday afternoon when he tried to land at the Lamar Airport and realized he wouldn't be able to stop before hitting the end of the runway.
The pilot safely ejected and has, according to the local Sheriff, suffered, at worst, a few bruises and a sprained ankle.
The ANG pilot decided to land at the tiny airport when a fire warning indicator light came on in the cockpit. After he ejected, the plane ran off the runway and split in two. There were no reports of fire, though.
The F-16 (Serial no. 87-0337) belongs to the 120th "Colorado Cougar" Fighter Squadron, Buckley AFB, Denver.
Colorado Air National Guard officials said the pilot was on a training mission at the time. The jet was unarmed.
Investigators qre focusing on possible engine failure and loss of hydraulics as the cause of the crash. A board of military officers will continue its inquiry.
Crash footage:
Tail detail of USAF F-16C block 30 #87-0337 from the 120th FS. [Photo by Frank Ertl]
The ANG pilot decided to land at the tiny airport when a fire warning indicator light came on in the cockpit. After he ejected, the plane ran off the runway and split in two. There were no reports of fire, though.
The F-16 (Serial no. 87-0337) belongs to the 120th "Colorado Cougar" Fighter Squadron, Buckley AFB, Denver.
Colorado Air National Guard officials said the pilot was on a training mission at the time. The jet was unarmed.
Investigators qre focusing on possible engine failure and loss of hydraulics as the cause of the crash. A board of military officers will continue its inquiry.
Crash footage:
- Crash picture, by John Contreras [external link]
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