The board investigating the non-fatal crash of an F-16 from Spangdahlem AB, Germany, on Sept. 14 found that the pilot experienced a “momentary lapse of attention,” on final turn, reports Stars and Stripes. Calling the crash pilot error, the board noted that a well-known “visual illusion” caused by the airfield’s upgrade on one end contributed to the accident.
Air Force depots are not typically meant for quick repair jobs, but during Operation Epic Fury, the service moved some of its stateside heavy maintenance capability forward to fix battle-damaged aircraft closer to the fight.
