Israel 🇮🇱
A major collision was narrowly avoided at the Israeli Air Force’s Ramat David Airbase when an F-16 fighter jet preparing for a mission over Lebanon almost collided with another fighter aircraft. The incident unfolded as the F-16 received clearance from the control tower for takeoff and began accelerating down the runway at 250 km/h, only for the pilot to spot another jet directly in its path. In a split-second decision, the pilot cut the engine and veered off course, averting a disaster. The jet, heavily armed and fueled, managed to come to a stop without impact. The Israeli Air Force has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The IDF confirmed, “A severe safety incident was narrowly avoided.”
Here’s how the dramatic sequence played out step-by-step:
• Two F-16 jets, each with a pilot and navigator, awaited clearance on the runway.
• Meanwhile, a third aircraft was granted clearance to cross the runway by the control tower.
• The first jet, loaded with heavy fuel and armaments, engaged afterburners and accelerated.
• At 250 km/h, moments before liftoff, the pilot noticed the third jet on the runway.
• Reacting instantly, the pilot cut the engine and reduced speed, managing to divert the jet.
• Both jets passed each other without incident, avoiding a potential catastrophe.
The quick actions of the pilot averted what could have been a deadly collision, underscoring the importance of vigilance in high-stakes aviation environments. The air force is now examining the protocols and procedures in place to prevent such close calls in the future.
