A South Korean Air Force KF-16 fighter jet crashes in Alaska, USA organized multinational During the Red Flag Alaska exercise The cause of the accident was announced as pilot error. This incident is the third major accident caused by pilot error for the South Korean Air Force in 2025.
Accident Details: Takeoff from Taxiway Instead of Runway
According to a statement from the South Korean Air Force, the accident occurred at Eielson Air Base around 11:09 on the morning of June 02. Three KF-3 fighter jets were to take off to participate in air tactical training, but all the aircraft were not ready for takeoff. entered the taxiway instead of the runway.
The control tower noticed that single-seat aircraft #1 was attempting to take off from the taxiway and instructed two-seat aircraft #2 to abort the takeoff. However, the pilot of aircraft #2 was unable to stop the aircraft safely due to insufficient stopping distance. The aircraft overshot the end of the taxiway and entered a grassy area, where a fire broke out. Both pilots (in the front and back seats) had the rank of captain and He escaped the crash safely by using emergency ejection seats.However, the plane sustained serious damage.
Investigation and Normalization Process
According to Chosun, the South Korean Air Force will continue to participate in the exercise as it has been confirmed that there is no mechanical fault in the aircraft. KF-16 flights, which were temporarily suspended following the accident, will resume on June 13. In addition, the accident investigation team continues to examine the statements of the pilots and tower personnel and the condition of the crashed aircraft together with the US Air Force.
Third Pilot Error-Related Accident of the Year
This incident was recorded as the third major accident caused by pilot error in the South Korean Air Force in 2025:
In marchDuring the joint Korea-US exercise in Pocheon, two KF-2 fighter jet pilots were fired for entering incorrect coordinates. 8 MK-82 type ammunitions fell in a civilian area. A total of 40 civilians were killed in the incident. 66 people were injured.
on April 18 The KA-1 type air control and attack aircraft accidentally crashed during a training flight. He left 2 machine guns, 500 bullets and 2 fuel tanks in the mountainous areaWhile there was no civilian loss of life in the incident, the cause of this accident was explained as the pilot accidentally pressing the weapon release button while trying to change the heater setting.
