USAF A-10C accident investigation report released

1/12/2012 – LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFNS) — Dual engine failure during a functional check flight caused the crash of an A-10C Thunderbolt II Sept. 26, 2011, according to the Air Combat Command Accident Investigation Board report released Jan. 11.

According to the report, the mishap aircraft’s stall warning system malfunctioned at 15,000 feet, preventing stall warning tones from functioning properly. Without evidence of additional malfunctions, the mishap pilot continued the FCF.

At 34,000 feet, the mishap aircraft experienced a stall that quickly resulted in dual engine failure. The mishap pilot performed checklist items to recover the aircraft, but without success. The pilot located a controlled bailout area and safely ejected from the aircraft.

The aircraft crashed onto private property approximately 20 miles northwest of Moody Air Force Base, Ga., and was destroyed. The pilot did not sustain serious injuries. The aircraft loss is valued at approximately $14.7 million. The environmental clean-up costs are estimated at $150,000.

(Courtesy of the Air Combat Command Public Affairs Office)