Experimental Fighter Jet Makes Safe Emergency Landing at Falcon Field Following Mid-Air Malfunction

Photo byiSkyNews / Ciara Perez

By Ciara Perez, News Reporter | iSkyCreations - News & Media (ISC)

Published October 12th, 2024

Mesa, AZ - At approximately 12:40 pm today, emergency personnel responded to a level 2 aircraft emergency at Falcon Field Airport, located at 4800 E. Falcon Drive in Mesa, Arizona. The call came in after an experimental fighter jet reported a Control Surface Flight Malfunction, requiring immediate support and an emergency landing, according to Mesa Fire and Medical.

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Upon receiving the call, Mesa Fire & Rescue units from Station 208, a Battalion Chief, and Mesa Police officers were swiftly dispatched to the airport. Emergency responders surrounded runway 22L, setting up a secure perimeter to facilitate a safe landing. The jet, carrying only the pilot, circled the area as the personnel on the ground coordinated efforts to ensure a clear landing path and assist in any further emergencies.

The level 2 emergency classification indicated a significant but manageable malfunction, signaling that the aircraft had experienced a critical system failure but could still be controlled enough for an emergency landing attempt. In this case, the issue lay in the jet’s control surfaces, essential for guiding the aircraft’s direction and stability.

With personnel in place and the runway secured, the experimental jet made its approach and, in a careful descent, safely landed without further incident. The lone pilot onboard exited unscathed, and the scene was promptly cleared by emergency personnel.

This incident highlights the quick response of Mesa’s emergency teams, whose coordination and preparation helped ensure a positive outcome. Falcon Field operations have since resumed as usual, with airport officials grateful for the timely support from Mesa Fire & Rescue and Mesa Police.

Photo byiSkyNews