Red Flag Exercise Fighter Jet Incident Overview / Provided by the ROK Air Force
June 12, 2025 (Thursday)
South Korea’s Air Force issued a formal apology on Tuesday following an accident involving one of its KF-16 fighter jets during a joint training exercise in Alaska. The incident occurred on June 11 at Eielson Air Force Base, where South Korean pilots are participating in the U.S.-led Red Flag Alaska drills.
According to military officials, three KF-16 aircraft were preparing for an air combat tactics mission around 9:02 a.m. local time when the mishap occurred. After the lead aircraft—a single-seat jet—successfully took off, the second aircraft, a two-seater, was forced to abort its takeoff. The pilot initiated an emergency ejection after the aircraft mistakenly attempted to launch from a taxiway rather than the designated runway.
Preliminary findings suggest that the flight formation mistakenly entered a taxiway during taxi procedures. When the lead jet began taking off from the incorrect location, U.S. Air Force controllers issued an urgent order to cancel takeoff for the second aircraft. However, the pilot was unable to stop in time and ejected. The jet overran the taxiway, crashed into a grassy field, and caught fire. The aircraft sustained significant damage.
A joint investigation is now underway, involving both South Korean and U.S. Air Force personnel. Investigators are reviewing statements from the pilots and air traffic controllers and examining the scene for additional context.
Officials confirmed no mechanical issues were contributing to the accident. As such, South Korea’s Air Force will continue participating in the Red Flag Alaska exercise, with KF-16 flights expected to resume on June 13.
“We offer our deepest apologies to the people of South Korea for the concern caused by this incident,” the Air Force said in a statement. “We are reflecting deeply and will take all necessary measures to prevent a recurrence.”
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