Fighter jet in Kuantan crashes due to bird collision, according to the head of the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF)
The investigation into the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) crash that occurred on August 21 at Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport in Kuantan, Pahang, has concluded. The incident, which took place at approximately 9:05 pm, involved an F/A-18D Hornet aircraft and was due to a bird strike involving a purple heron.
The investigation was conducted with the assistance of several departments, including the Science and Technology Research Institute for Defence, the chemistry department, the police, the wildlife and national parks department (Perhilitan), and the US Navy. A board of inquiry was initiated on August 22 to determine the cause of the crash.
The two officers involved in the incident, pilot Azhar Alang Kamarudin and copilot Izzuddin Salleh, successfully ejected before the aircraft crashed. Unfortunately, both officers sustained injuries. Captain Ahmad Faizal, the pilot injured in the incident, is currently recovering and will continue treatment until October 2. Izzuddin Salleh escaped with bruises on several parts of his body.
RMAF chief Norazlan Aris confirmed the findings at a press conference held at the airbase today. He stated that this is the first instance where a bird strike has compromised flight safety in the RMAF. He also mentioned that the F/A-18D Hornet aircraft operations have resumed as normal from today.
The purple heron, being relatively large, may have contributed to the severity of the incident. The bird species was identified through tests conducted on animal bone fragments found in the aircraft's engine. A video showing the fighter jet catching fire shortly after takeoff was shared widely on social media.
Both officers are currently undergoing readiness tests before returning to duty. The RMAF has implemented stricter procedures to avoid such incidents in the future, ensuring the safety of its personnel and the public. The investigation serves as a reminder of the importance of wildlife management in and around airports.
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