What happened
During a nighttime training mission originating from Fairchild AFB, WA, the crew of an unidentified aircraft encountered unforeseen technical difficulties while cruising. Following these complications, the crew made the decision to bail out of the plane. The aircraft subsequently crashed in a canyon situated within Hunts Mesa, approximately 13 miles northeast of Kayenta, AZ.
Upon impact with the terrain, the aircraft type disintegrated. Emergency responders and rescue teams located the site and managed to recover five members of the crew. However, the accident resulted in two fatalities among the personnel on board.
Findings
- The aircraft experienced unknown technical problems during the flight phase.
- The decision to abandon the aircraft preceded the final impact with the canyon floor.