How Selfies Caused Two Fighter Jets to Collide Mid-Air

A mid-air collision involving two Boeing F-15K Slam Eagle fighters in 2021 has resurfaced after investigators revealed an unusual cause: pilots were taking photos and filming each other during the flight.

The incident occurred during a training mission near Daegu. According to South Korea’s Board of Audit and Inspection, one pilot wanted photos to mark his final flight with his military unit and openly mentioned the plan during the mission briefing.

A Dangerous Maneuver for the Camera

As the aircraft returned to base, the wingman pilot began taking photos with a personal phone. The lead aircraft crew then joined in, asking another pilot onboard to record video footage of the trailing jet.

The wingman suddenly climbed and rolled the aircraft to create a better angle for the camera. The maneuver brought both fighters dangerously close together.

The lead aircraft attempted to dive away, but it was too late. Its wing struck the wingman’s tail stabilizer, damaging both jets.

Costly Mistake

Despite the collision, the pilots safely returned and no injuries were reported. Repair costs reached roughly 880 million won, or nearly $600,000.

The South Korean Air Force initially sought full repayment from the wingman pilot, but investigators later reduced the fine to 88 million won after determining that photo-taking had become an accepted practice and leadership failed to properly regulate it.

A Wake-Up Call

The incident exposed how informal traditions can create serious risks in military aviation. What began as a commemorative photo opportunity nearly destroyed two frontline fighters.

For air forces operating high-performance aircraft, even brief distractions can quickly become expensive mistakes.