A US Air Force commander, being an experienced pilot of the fifth-generation F-35 fighter, seems to have decided to try flying an AH-64D Apache attack helicopter as well. Understandably, however, the test in question had tragic results. The attack helicopter crashed on February 12, 2024, but now the causes of the accident have been revealed.
Specifically, the investigation was carried out by the National Guard of the American Air Force in the state of Utah, which discovered that the pilot's only experience with the Apache helicopter was his engagement with a related simulator for a period of just 35 minutes. Apart from these few minutes of practice with the simulator, the American commander had no other practical knowledge of the particular platform.
The accident, which as we mentioned above happened in February of this year, caused a wave of reactions in the American military world. Many experts questioned how the American officer was allowed to fly the helicopter with such limited experience.
It goes without saying that the AH-64D Apache is a very complex platform, which requires vast experience and the appropriate skills to take off, operate and land safely and effectively. There is no way a fighter pilot (any fighter) can handle such a different aircraft without proper practice and training.
The AH-64D Apache has its own unique state-of-the-art electronic and digital systems, designed to enable the helicopter to perform challenging combat and reconnaissance missions.
How Did the Accident Happen?
According to the investigation conducted by the US Air National Guard, the pilot had extensive experience on the fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II platform. It seems that he overestimated his abilities and decided to try his luck with an Apache helicopter, probably believing that it would be easier to handle compared to the F-35.
The result speaks for itself. The F-35 pilot's skills were of no use, since the Apache is a completely different platform. Due to the mishandling the helicopter crashed and suffered severe damage to its fuselage and systems. Fortunately the two pilots did not lose their lives, but the captain will surely suffer the consequences of his actions.
The US military will spend time and money to repair the damage the F-35 pilot caused to the Apache helicopter.
