Investigators has found, improper trimming as the cause for the crash of a Hellenic Air Force (HAF) F-16D fighter jet, during taking off...
Investigators has found, improper trimming as the cause for the crash of a Hellenic Air Force (HAF) F-16D fighter jet, during taking off for a training sortie from Los Llanos Air Base, Albacete, Spain on 26 January 2015.
The aircraft was not properly trimmed for takeoff as before taxi, the yaw trim was inadvertent set to maximum right yaw trimming (12 degree right), drastically affecting the aerodynamics of the aircraft during takeoff.
Trimming is used to counteract hydro- or aerodynamic forces and stabilize the aircraft in a particular desired attitude without the need for the pilot to constantly apply a control force
The Pilot in Command (PIC) conducted the “Before Takeoff” checklist actions in the parking area approximately 20 min before takeoff.
After take-off, pilot stick commands and the resultant control surface outputs were insufficient to maintain the Greek fighter in controlled flight.
The aircraft was taking part in the NATO's Tactical Leadership Program (TLP) Flying Course. The aircraft, second of a two ship formation was tasked to protect a friendly aircraft package and the flight was coordinated with the Mission Commander.
The twin seat F-16D Block 50, crashed at 15:16 local time (14:16 UTC), approximately 7.8 sec after taking off from runway. The aft seat pilot initiated ejection out of the seat safe ejection envelope. The mishap resulted in the fatal injury of both mishap pilots and the total destruction of the aircraft.
Impact and the post impact fire led to the destruction or damage of eight additional aircraft parked at ramp and hangar, and caused fatal injuries to nine French Air Force personnel, numerous other injuries and significant damages to ground equipment.
Aircraft destoryed/damaged:
- French Mirage-2000D S/N 651(totally destroyed)
- French Mirage-2000D S/N 669 (substantially damaged)
- French Alpha Jet S/N E047 (totally destroyed)
- French Alpha Jet S/N E096 (substantially damaged)
- French Rafale S/N Î’335 (slightly damaged)
- Italy AMX S/N 7193 (totally destroyed)
- Italy AMX S/N 7192 (slightly damaged)
- USAF-15E S/N 202 (slightly damaged)
