news/2008/08/ap_crashreport_080608
Report: Pilot error blamed in fatal Talon crash
Posted : Thursday Aug 7, 2008 9:29:52 EDT
WICHITA FALLS, Texas — Pilot error is to blame in a military jet crash that killed an instructor and student pilot at Sheppard Air Force Base three months ago, according to a report released Wednesday.
Maj. Brad T. Funk, a 90th Flying Training Squadron instructor pilot, and 2nd Lt. Alec F. Littler, a student pilot assigned to the 80th Operations Support Squadron, were on a training mission May 1, according to the report released by Randolph Air Force Base in San Antonio.
They were simulating a single-engine landing approach and were trying to touch down on the Sheppard runway and then take off again, but the T-38C Talon landed short of the runway, causing debris to enter the right engine. Funk took control of the plane, and as it was climbing, he retracted the landing gear and flaps, causing the plane to have insufficient power and airspeed, the report said.
It stalled about 25 to 40 feet above the ground and they ejected almost simultaneously, causing contact between the two seats and disrupting the ejection’s direction and sequence, the report said. Both were killed on impact with the ground at the base in Wichita Falls.
Funk did not execute critical emergency procedures after the right engine failed, according to the accident investigation board.
“Specifically, the decision to retract the flaps rather than leaving them extended resulted in insufficient lift to sustain flight,” the report read.
Digg
Contests and Promotions
Win A Timex Ironman® Triathlon Bodylink Trail Runner Watch
Enter and WIN...The Timex Ironman Triathlon Bodylink Trail Runner is ideal for monitoring your heart rate and distance when running or to use as a GPS device.
Marketplace
Military Times Gear Shop
COOLMAX Extreme S S ShirtThis COOLMAX® short-sleeve shirt reduce skin temperature while offering excellent moisture management properties.
Price: $10.99
Military Discounts
Save on your purchases!
In honor of your military service, you can find regular and name brand products at a special discount.






