Summary of Events
On 6 December 2021, an MQ-9A Reaper (tail number 15-4301) assigned to the 49th Wing and operated by the 9th Attack Squadron Formal Training Unit crashed during takeoff at Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. The mishap crew consisted of a pilot, sensor operator, and safety observer; there were no injuries or fatalities. The aircraft was destroyed, resulting in damage costs equivalent to one aircraft's portion of a complete MQ-9 unit, which includes four aircraft with sensors, one ground control station, and one satellite link, valued at $56.5 million.
Sequence of Events
After applying takeoff power and beginning the takeoff roll on runway 25, the aircraft experienced a complete loss of engine power seconds after becoming airborne. The loss of power occurred because the mishap pilot (MP) intended to reduce flaps but mistakenly pulled the condition lever backward instead of pushing the flap lever forward, thereby shutting off the engine. Upon realizing the power loss, the crew initiated an engine restart while the aircraft was not yet at the apogee of its flight path. The MP commanded increased aircraft pitch as the aircraft decelerated, causing the aircraft to stall. It then impacted the runway and exploded, with the wreckage coming to rest just off the prepared surface.
Causes
The Accident Investigation Board President found by a preponderance of the evidence two causes: (1) the MP misidentified the flap lever and, instead of pushing it forward, pulled the condition lever back, shutting off the engine; (2) the MP undercontrolled the aircraft by commanding increased pitch when approaching stall conditions, placing the aircraft outside safe flight parameters as the engine began to restart.
Substantially Contributing Factors
Two factors were found to have substantially contributed to the mishap: (1) the design of the pilot Ground Control Station (GCS), specifically the proximity between the condition lever and flap lever, lack of lever markings, lack of color differentiation, and lack of a condition lever safety guard; (2) the MP's lack of proficiency in Launch and Recovery operations, which prevented him from taking off or establishing a glide with minimum acceptable speed, accuracy, and safety.
Investigation Context
Under 10 U.S.C. § 2254(d), the opinions of the accident investigator regarding cause or contributing factors may not be considered as evidence in any civil or criminal proceeding arising from the accident.