Selfie-taking pilots blamed for South Korean fighter jet collision
An investigation into a mid-air collision between two South Korean Air Force F-15K fighter jets in December 2021 has concluded that the accident was caused by pilots taking selfies and filming during the training mission. The incident occurred near Daegu when the wingman, who was capturing photographs, performed a stunt for the camera, causing the two aircraft to fly too close together. Despite both pilots attempting evasive manoeuvres, the planes collided.
Fortunately, neither pilot sustained injuries. However, the collision inflicted significant damage on both aircraft, amounting to 880 million won (approximately £440,000). The lead aircraft suffered damage to its left wing, while the wingman's tail stabiliser was also impacted.
Following the incident, the wingman pilot, who had since joined a commercial airline, was initially ordered to pay the full repair cost. However, he successfully challenged this decision. The Board of Audit and Inspection reduced his fine by 90 per cent, bringing it down to around 88 million won (about £44,063). The board cited the routine practice of commemorative photos within the air force and the lack of specific regulations prohibiting such behaviour as mitigating factors.
In response to the accident, South Korea's Air Force issued an apology and confirmed that one of the pilots involved received severe disciplinary action, including suspension from flying duties before leaving the military. The air force also stated that it is implementing stricter flight safety rules to prevent similar incidents in the future.
