US Air Force F-16 fighter accident

The United States Air Force (USAF) lost one of its F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters on Tuesday afternoon (30) in an accident at Holloman Air Force Base. New Mexico. Details about the incident are still scarce.

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According to FOX News, the fighter plane crashed on Highway 70, near White Sands National Park. A base spokesperson informed local media that the pilot, the only crew member, ejected successfully and was taken to the nearest hospital. He did not provide further information about the airman's health status. The official also says emergency crews are on scene and asks the public to stay away from the area. for “prevent possible exposure to hazardous chemicals on board the aircraft”.

US Air Force confirmed accident with one of its F-16 fighters at Holoman base, New Mexico. Pilot ejected and was taken to hospital. Photo: USAF/Illustrative image.

In fact, F-16 fighters use Hydrazine, a highly toxic and flammable colorless liquid used to power electrical systems and the EPU (Emergency Power Unit) as part of the aircraft's reserve power system, as noted by the The Aviationist. Exposure to the product “It can cause irritation to the eyes and respiratory tract. Short-term exposure can cause tremors, while prolonged exposure can cause liver and kidney damage, possibly seizures or death.”, explains the US Air Force.

Holloman Base is one of the USAF's main installations in New Mexico and is home to the 54th Fighter Group. The unit reports to the 49th Wing of the Air Education and Training Command and coordinates the training of F-16 pilots and mechanics. The base also houses MQ-1 Reaper, MQ-9 Predator, C-12 Huron and T-38 Talon drones.

This is the fourth accident involving a US Air Force F-16 since late January. On the last occasion, the fighter jet crashes in South Korea during training.

With information KFOX14, KVIA.

US Air Force F-16 fighter accident

by Gabriel Centeno