Mid-Air Jet Collision Tied to Pilots Filming During Flight

(MENAFN) According to reports, an investigation by South Korean authorities concluded that a mid-air collision between two fighter jets in 2021 occurred after pilots became distracted while taking photos and videos during a mission.

The incident happened over the central city of Daegu, as detailed by the country’s audit body. Although both pilots escaped unharmed, the aircraft sustained significant damage, resulting in repair costs of approximately 880 million won.

One of the pilots involved, who has since left military service, was fined 88 million won for his role in the incident. The report explained that he had intended to capture images to mark his final flight with his unit.

Taking photos during notable flights was described in the findings as "a widespread practice among pilots at the time", and the pilot had reportedly mentioned his plan during a pre-flight briefing.

During the mission, he was operating the wingman aircraft behind a lead jet. On the return leg, he began using his personal phone to take pictures. In response, the lead aircraft’s pilot asked another crew member to record video footage of the wingman jet.

As part of the attempt to capture better visuals, the wingman pilot adjusted his aircraft’s position, climbing and flipping the jet to improve the camera angle. This maneuver brought the two planes dangerously close.

The lead aircraft then attempted to descend quickly to avoid contact, but the jets ultimately collided. The impact damaged the left wing of the lead aircraft and the tail stabilizer of the wingman jet.

Following the incident, the air force suspended the wingman pilot, who later transitioned to a career in commercial aviation.

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