Compressor Bearing Failure Led to 2015 Reaper Crash
On 18 November 2015, at approximately 2338 Zulu (Z) an MQ-9A, tail number 08-4044, assigned to the 27th Special Operations Wing at Cannon Air Force Base (AFB), and deployed to Kandahar International Airport, crashed in an open field near the base after declaring an in-flight emergency (IFE) shortly after take-off. The Launch and Recovery Element mishap crew (MC), consisting of one mishap pilot (MP) and one mishap sensor operator (MSO), noticed high oil pressure, rising exhaust gas temperature, and fluctuating torque immediately upon take-off. The MC reported the IFE and attempted a recovery to the runway; however, complete engine failure occurred on the crosswind leg at approximately 500 feet above ground level. The mishap aircraft (MA) glided to a crash landing as the crew attempted to circle around to land.
The impact destroyed MA, four missiles, and one bomb, resulting in a loss valued at $14,391,950. There were no fatalities or damage to private property.
The Abbreviated Accident Investigation Board President found by a preponderance of the evidence the cause of the mishap to be a compressor bearing failure that led to engine loss. The Board President determined that the lack of an audible warning to indicate the high oil pressure associated with the bearing failure and the mishap crew’s task saturation significantly contributed to the mishap. Under 10 U.S.C. § 2254
The full report is available here.
The impact destroyed MA, four missiles, and one bomb, resulting in a loss valued at $14,391,950. There were no fatalities or damage to private property.
The Abbreviated Accident Investigation Board President found by a preponderance of the evidence the cause of the mishap to be a compressor bearing failure that led to engine loss. The Board President determined that the lack of an audible warning to indicate the high oil pressure associated with the bearing failure and the mishap crew’s task saturation significantly contributed to the mishap. Under 10 U.S.C. § 2254
The full report is available here.
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