Two Pilots Suffer Only Minor Burns and Lacerations
Air Force to Dispatch Accident Investigation Team This Evening
A Republic of Korea Air Force KF-16 fighter jet, which was participating in training in the United States, was damaged in an accident during takeoff roll.
According to the Air Force on June 11, at 9:02 a.m. KST, an emergency ejection occurred from a Republic of Korea KF-16 fighter jet during takeoff roll at the U.S. Air Force Eielson Base. The aircraft was a two-seater model, with two pilots (both Air Force captains) seated in the front and rear cockpits.
Both pilots on board successfully ejected. After being examined at a U.S. Army hospital, it was confirmed that, aside from minor burns and lacerations sustained during the emergency ejection, they suffered no significant injuries. The pilots are currently resting and recovering locally.
The aircraft, which was partially damaged by fire, is now located in the grass beside the runway. The Air Force plans to urgently dispatch a team of about 10 accident investigators and emergency maintenance personnel to Eielson Base later today via a KC-330 flight. The Air Force stated, "We will work closely with the U.S. side to verify the exact circumstances of the accident."
Meanwhile, the aircraft had previously traveled from Korea to participate in the 'Red Flag Alaska' exercise, which involves South Korea, the United States, Japan, and other countries.
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