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U-2 Crashes in the Republic of Korea

Jan. 27, 2003

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea - A U-2 aircraft from the 5th Reconnaissance Squadron at Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea crashed near ear the city of Hwa Song, located near Osan Air Base around 3 p.m., Jan. 26.

The crash resulted in injuries to four Korean citizens and property damage to a home, garage, and a local business, and a total loss of the aircraft.

The pilot ejected safely from the aircraft and was taken to the Osan base hospital to be treated for minor injuries where he offered his deepest sympathy for the accident.

"I am deeply sorry for injuries, damage, or suffering caused by this accident for anyone on the ground. I did everything I could with the aircraft to try to keep it away from densely populated areas before I had to eject. When I recover from my injuries, I hope to meet with those most affected and personally let them know how sorry I am for this accident," he said.

Upon arrival at the hospital he immediately expressed concern for those on the ground, said base officials.

"I would like to thank those local Koreans who stopped and offered me their assistance and the use of a cell phone once I was on the ground," said the pilot.

Personnel from the 33rd Rescue Squadron, Det. 1, Kadena Air Base, Japan retrieved the pilot who sustained injuries during the ejection.

"We are deeply sorry for this accident," said Brig. Gen. Mark Beesley, vice commander, 7th Air Force, who visited the injured at the hospitals. "We will make every effort to provide assistance for the individuals who were injured in this accident and take the necessary steps to ensure the claims process works quickly and effectively."

Pilots assigned to the 5th Reconnaissance Squadron have flown more than 7,000 sorties in U-2S on the peninsula since 1976. The squadron maintains a 98 percent mission effectiveness rating, which had its first-ever U-2S operational mission flown here October 20, 1995. The U-2 provides continuous day and night high altitude all-weather surveillance and reconnaissance in direct support of U.S. and allied ground and air forces.

A board of qualified officers will investigate the accident. The investigation process began immediately with the convening of an interim safety investigation board whose purpose is to determine possible causes and prevent future mishaps. (PACAFNS)