Communication was lost with an F-16 fighter jet that had taken off from the Balıkesir 9th Main Jet Base Command. As a result of search efforts initiated shortly thereafter, it was determined that the aircraft had crashed near the İzmir-İstanbul Highway. It was announced that Air Major Pilot İbrahim Bolat was martyred in the accident.
HE TRIED TO STEER THE AIRCRAFT AWAY FROM RESIDENTIAL AREAS
According to a report by Sabah, it was determined that the pilot made intense efforts to steer the aircraft until the moments when control was lost. It was learned that Bolat tried to direct the aircraft to a point away from residential areas and the highway, and that he did not have the opportunity to eject during this process. It was stated that he tried to keep the aircraft under control until the last moment, thereby preventing a potentially larger disaster.
“PILOT VERTIGO” POSSIBILITY BEING EVALUATED
Following the accident, an investigation was launched by the Balıkesir Chief Public Prosecutor's Office. Initial assessments focused on the possibility that the pilot may have experienced “pilot vertigo,” which can cause a loss of orientation and spatial awareness in the air. It was noted that this condition, defined as spatial disorientation, can lead to the misperception of the aircraft's position during high speed and maneuvers.
TECHNICAL DATA UNDER SCRUTINY
Authorities stated that the technical data and black box records regarding the accident would be examined in detail, and that the definitive result would emerge after the analyses are completed. The Ministry of National Defense also announced that the administrative and technical investigation into the incident is ongoing.
News Source: 12punto
