An F-35, a combat plane, part of the United States Air Force, was involved in a significant accident at Eielson Military Base in Alaska. A video capturing the incident shows the plane falling uncontrollably towards the runway with its landing gear extended, eventually crashing and causing a large fireball. Fortunately, the pilot managed to eject before the impact and was taken to Bassett Army Hospital for treatment.
Incident Capture and Base Information
The incident was recorded on video as the plane approached landing, showing it circling in tight loops near the base’s runway. Eielson Air Force Base, where the incident occurred, is home to over 50 F-35a fighters and serves as a critical location for providing aerial, spatial, and cyber capabilities to ensure regional stability and safety under the US Indo-Pacific Command.
Investigation and Previous Incidents
The pilot had declared an emergency before the accident, but the cause remains unknown. Colonel Paul Towsend, Commander of the 354th Hunting Wing, assured that the Air Force will conduct a thorough investigation to determine the accident’s cause and prevent similar incidents in the future. The base was chosen in 2016 to house 54 F-35s, resulting in a significant expansion costing over $500 million, which included new buildings, housing units, and an influx of new active duty aviators and their dependents.
F-35 Fleet History
Since its first flight in 2006, the F-35 fleet has accumulated approximately 676,000 flight hours as of June 2023 and has been involved in six accidents resulting in the total loss of the aircraft. The F-35A Lightning II is known for its advanced technology and stealth capabilities, designed to perform both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions. The F-35 comes in three variants: the F-35A for conventional takeoff and landing, the F-35B for short takeoff and vertical landing, and the F-35C for aircraft carrier operations.