The South Korean Air Force has formally apologized for a mid-air collision involving two fighter jets in 2021, following a report that pilots were taking selfies and filming during the flight. The accident occurred near Daegu when an F-15K wingman pilot sharply climbed and banked without clearance to record images for his final flight, while another pilot filmed from the lead jet. The wingman's tail struck the lead jet's wing, causing approximately 880 million won in damage but no injuries.
Apology and Disciplinary Action
An air force spokesman expressed sincere apologies to the public for the concern caused by the accident. He stated that one pilot was suspended from flying duties, faced severe disciplinary action, and has since left the military. The state Board of Audit and Inspection held the wingman pilot primarily responsible and ordered him to repay roughly a tenth of the repair costs.
Lax Controls and Safety Measures
The audit board criticized the air force for lax controls on in-flight filming. In response, the air force is tightening flight safety rules to prevent a repeat of the incident. The collision underscores the dangers of unauthorized maneuvers for personal recording during military operations.
