F-22 Raptor Crashes- Pilot Killed

25 March, Edwards AFB- Test pilot David Cooley was killed when his F-22 Raptor crashed 35 miles northeast of Edwards Air Force Base, California. Cooley was on test mission when the 10AM mishap occurred.

Cooley was part of a joint Lockheed/Air Force team that was testing the F-22. He been with Lockheed/Martin since 2003 and a 23 year Air Force veteran.

This was only the second crash of a Raptor and the first since it became operational with the U.S. Air Force. The only other mishap was a December 2004 crash at Nellis AFB, Nevada.

The YF-22 Prototype crashed on take off in 1992.


The cause of latest crash is as of yet, unknown. The Air Force investigation continues.

Co-pilot Breakdown, Flight Attendant Takes Place

November 21, 2008- At no time before disembarking at Shannon Airport did the passengers have any clue that it was an issue with a crew member. All airline employee indicators (epaulets, company and airport id and passes etc.) were removed prior to his extrication from the cockpit. The crew was amazing. Very, very professional, respectful and calm.

U.S. Airways Flight 1539