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According to an Air Force investigation, the fatal crash of a CV-22B Osprey off Japan in November, which killed eight airmen, was due to a catastrophic gearbox failure and the crew’s handling of the issue.

Let’s bring you up to speed:  In November, a CV-22B Osprey crashed off the coast of Yakushima Island, Japan, resulting in the deaths of eight airmen. Despite multiple warnings about metal chips in the gearbox during the flight, the crew continued their mission until it was too late. The aircraft attempted to divert to Yakushima Island for an emergency landing but crashed into the water before reaching safety. This incident led to a temporary grounding of the Osprey fleet.

What’s the report found: According to the report, the gearbox’s internal components began cracking, releasing debris that eventually caused the proprotor to stop turning, which ultimately made the pilots lose control of the aircraft. Despite receiving multiple warnings about metal chips in the gearbox, the crew continued their mission until the situation became critical.

What the Air Force said: In response to the investigation report on the fatal CV-22B Osprey crash, the US Air Force has updated flight protocols to require landing as soon as practical after detecting a single chip in the gearbox and as soon as possible after a second chip warning. The Air Force is also conducting a comprehensive review of their maintenance and inspection procedures for Osprey gearboxes to prevent similar failures. Additionally, they are enhancing pilot training to ensure crews are better prepared to handle in-flight emergencies and emphasizing the importance of prioritizing safety over mission continuation.  

Digging Deeper: The V-22 Osprey, despite its advanced capabilities and versatility, has faced considerable criticism over its safety record. Critics point to a history of mechanical issues which have led to multiple fatal accidents. As of December 2023, there have been 10 fatal crashes. These incidents have sparked debates about the aircraft’s reliability and suitability for military operations, especially in combat scenarios.