Low-level winds and pilot error caused an MQ-1B Predator to crash in April at Creech Air Force Base, Nevada, the Air Force announced today.
The drone was flying a routine launch-and-recovery training mission on April 4 when the mishap occurred. Low-level wind shear during a critical phase of landing caused the aircraft to bounce on the runway, and the pilot’s incorrect recovery attempts caused it to continue bouncing until its landing gear was destroyed, according to an Air Combat Command abbreviated accident investigation board report released today.
The aircraft was significantly damaged, at a cost estimated of $4.5 million. There were no injuries or damage to private property.
The drone and its crew was assigned to the 11th Reconnaissance Squadron at Creech.
