Investigation finds engine failure caused Predator crash

  • Published
LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFPN) --  Engine failure caused the crash of an MQ-1B Predator remotely piloted aircraft Jan. 17, at a forward location in Southwest Asia, according to an Accident Investigation Board report released by Air Combat Command today.

The $4.16 million Predator, assigned to the 15th Reconnaissance Squadron at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., was destroyed upon impact. There were no injuries, fatalities or damages to other property or equipment.

According to the investigation, there is clear and convincing evidence the mishap was caused by a crack in the crankshaft that ultimately caused the failure of a connecting rod in the aircraft's engine. When the rod failed, it wedged itself in the opposing engine cylinder causing the crankshaft to stop and the engine to seize.

The aircraft crashed in an unpopulated location. The remains of the aircraft and all classified equipment and weapons were recovered.

(Courtesy of Air Combat Command Public Affairs) 

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