Sequence of Events
On 3 September 2023, an MQ-9A Reaper (tail number 16-4339) assigned to the 162d Attack Squadron launched from a Launch and Recovery Element in the U.S. Africa Command area of responsibility. It conducted operations under the control of the Mission Control Element in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility. After completing its operational mission, the aircraft experienced a Starter-Generator failure, classified as an Electrical System Malfunction that required landing as soon as possible. The mishap crew diagnosed the malfunction but performed the associated checklist slowly and with several errors. The mishap operations supervisor introduced extraneous factors into communications with the Launch and Recovery Element crew, leading to doubt about the nature of the malfunction and whether the aircraft could be recovered. A forced landing location near a Forward Operating Base was coordinated, but the mishap pilot determined that the aircraft lacked sufficient battery power to execute a controlled forced landing. The aircraft was then assigned a ditching location near a vessel and set to loiter until fuel exhaustion. It crashed into undisclosed waters several hours later. The aircraft was destroyed; no injuries or loss of life occurred, and no civilian property was damaged. The loss of government property was valued at $26,130,703.
Cause and Contributing Factors
The Accident Investigation Board President determined, by a preponderance of the evidence, that the cause of the mishap was pilot error, specifically the mishap pilot's decision to crash-land or ditch the aircraft. Two factors were found to have substantially contributed to the mishap. First, ineffective operations supervision created confusion among the Mission Control Element and Launch and Recovery Element crews about the malfunction, and this confusion was not resolved. Second, poor general knowledge among the mishap pilot created uncertainty about the impact of the electrical malfunction on the aircraft's ability to recover at the Launch and Recovery Element.
Investigation Summary
The investigation included analysis of maintenance records, airframe systems, crew qualifications, medical factors, and human factors. The board found no deviations from governing directives or publications that contributed to the mishap. The report noted that the mishap crew was qualified and medically cleared for duty. No adverse health or lifestyle issues were identified. The board's opinion is provided under 10 U.S.C. § 2254(d) and may not be used as evidence in civil or criminal proceedings.