GLENDALE, ARIZ. (3TV/CBS 5) - A flashlight is responsible for causing irreparable damage to the $14 million engine of an F-35 based at Luke Air Force Base in Glendale.
A report by the Air Force Aircraft Accident Investigation Board showed the incident happened on March 15, 2023, while the jet was undergoing some maintenance work.
The report states a three-member maintenance team removed a panel and inserted a metering plug into an engine fuel line. They prepared the aircraft for an engine run to test the installed metering plug for fuel leaks. The engine run was completed with no visual indications that would indicate an abnormal engine run. The damage was found after the engine was shut down following the engine test.
The Air Force says each member of the maintenance team was current and qualified to accomplish all the tasks.
The Board President found by a preponderance of the evidence that a handheld flashlight caused damage to the aircraft.
An incomplete tool kit inventory and failure to comply with Joint-Service Technical Data guidance prior to engine start resulted in the damage.
clarification: This story headline has been updated to provide better clarification of the cost.
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