Three airmen assigned to the 318th Special Operations Squadron were killed after their U-28A crashed during a training sortie, officials announced Wednesday morning.
The incident happened at 6:50 p.m. Tuesday about a quarter mile east of Clovis Municipal Airport in New Mexico. Local first responders reacted to the incident and put out a fire that started as a result of the crash, Cannon Air Force Base spokesman Capt. Brandon Baccam said during a news conference Wednesday morning.
"We are deeply saddened by this loss within our Air Commando family," said Col. Ben Maitre, commander of the 27th Special Operations Wing at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico, in a statement. "Our sympathies are with the loved ones and friends affected by this tragedy, and our team is focused on supporting them during this difficult time."
The names of the airmen have not been released, pending notification of their families.
Baccam said the base ceased all flying operations Tuesday night and resumed them Wednesday morning for all but the 318th Special Operations Squadron.
The U-28 training sorties involve anything from tactical scenarios to pilot proficiency training, and Clovis Municipal Airport is part of that training, he said.
According to NBC station KOB, the airport director said the plane was performing "touch-and-go's" — a practice maneuver where the aircraft touches the runway but doesn't come to a complete stop and takes off again. The Air Force would not confirm exactly what the airmen were practicing.
The cause of the accident is under investigation. Air Force officials did not immediately release any additional information.
The U-28A provides a manned fixed-wing, on-call or surge capability for improved tactical airborne intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance in support of special operations forces, according to an Air Force fact sheet.
The aircraft is operated by the 318th, 319th and 34th Special Operations squadrons, while training is conducted by the 5th and 19th SOS. The units are located at Hurlburt Field, Florida, and Cannon Air Force Base.
Charlsy Panzino covers the Guard and Reserve, training, technology, operations and features for Army Times and Air Force Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.
Charlsy is a Reporter and Engagement Manager for Military Times. Email her at cpanzino@militarytimes.com.
