JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii – Headquarters Pacific Air Forces today released the results of its investigation into the July 22 F-16C aircraft crash in the Pacific Ocean approximately 750 miles northeast of Misawa Air Base, Japan.
The Accident Investigation Board, convened by PACAF, found by clear and convincing evidence that the mishap was an uncommanded closure of the main fuel shutoff valve.
According to the AIB report, the F-16C Fighting Falcon experienced a loss of thrust from the engine that the aircraft’s pilot could not restore. The pilot safely ejected from the aircraft and was recovered without injury. The aircraft crashed into the Pacific Ocean and was destroyed. No other property damage or injuries to military personnel or civilians resulted from the mishap.
The aircraft was assigned to the 14th Fighter Squadron, 35th Fighter Wing, Misawa Air Base, Japan. The mishap occurred en route from Misawa AB, to Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska to participate in exercise RED FLAG-Alaska.
Colonel Terry Scott served as the Accident Investigation Board president. Colonel Scott is the Vice Commander, 15th Wing, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. Colonel Scott is a command pilot with more than 3,900 flight hours, to include the F-15 and the F-22.
Executive summary: https://www.pacaf.af.mil/library/publicreports/index.asp