The investigation into the crash of an F-35 fighter jet in South Carolina last year found that the pilot prematurely ejected from the aircraft, leading to a series of unusual events.
The incident occurred on September 17, 2023, during a training flight when the jet experienced multiple system failures due to heavy rain and reported lightning nearby.
An electrical event affected its radios, transponders, and navigation systems, causing the pilot’s helmet display to flicker intermittently.
Despite the aircraft flying unmanned for approximately 11 minutes and covering over 60 miles, investigators concluded that the computer systems were still capable of controlling the jet.
The pilot, unsure of his position and instruments, decided to eject, though the report indicated that this action was unnecessary given the functioning standby instruments and partial backup radio.
Following the ejection, the pilot safely landed in a North Charleston backyard and called for help, reporting back pain but no serious injuries. The F-35, valued at around $100 million, remained missing for over 24 hours due to its stealth technology, which complicated recovery efforts.
The Marines faced significant public scrutiny, leading to media attention and even memes regarding the aircraft’s disappearance.
Recovery operations took 17 days and cost over $2.1 million, as teams worked to locate and clear the wreckage in rural Williamsburg County.
The report highlighted the challenges faced during the incident and the impact of the jet’s advanced technology on both the crash and subsequent recovery efforts.
