An instructor pilot and student pilot had to make a belly landing with their T-6A Texan II trainer at Columbus AFB, Miss., on June 25, after the aircraft’s landing gear malfunctioned during a training sortie, reported The Dispatch, a local newspaper. Neither pilot was injured in the mishap, according to the report. The incident occurred as student pilots practiced aerial maneuvers, takeoffs, and landings, stated the newspaper. The damaged aircraft is currently sitting in a base hangar. A safety investigation board will review the incident, which is reportedly the first mishap of this type at Columbus in some five years.
When Airmen eject, the mission is clear: America leaves no warrior behind. Airmen are trained to survive, evade, resist, and escape the enemy, and everyone from ground crew to rescue personnel and commanders are committed to doing everything necessary—and possible—to bring downed Airmen home.