During a training flight over Schleswig-Holstein threw a fighter jet of the Bundeswehr two additional tanks. A week later it is clear: Technical failure could be excluded in the case, said Colonel Kristof Conrath, Commodore of the Tactical Air Force Squadron 51 "Immelmann". The reason for the incident is human error.
The Tornado belonging to the air base Jagel in Schleswig-Holstein was one week ago on a training flight on the way, with which a "simulated air attack procedure" should be trained. It's about flying a practice attack to go through the technical processes.
In front sat a student pilot, behind the pilot. The student pilot pressed the wrong button and triggered a scheduled for emergency emergency ejection mechanism.
When the tanks hit a dirt road and in a field near Pansdorf in the district of Ostholstein, there were no casualties. The additional tanks were filled at departure with each 1200 kilograms of fuel, at the time of the accident but virtually empty.
The investigation led the squadron. From there, a report is forwarded to the "General Aviation Safety" department. One suggestion: The release mechanism of the tanks should be additionally secured in the future.
According to initial findings of the Air Force, there have been two similar cases in the past: Once in early 2006, when a tornado lost the outer tanks in an exercise over international waters. Once again tanks were dropped in North Rhine-Westphalia.
