Air Force to Reintroduce Osprey Aircraft After Resolving Issues

U.S. Air Force plane with trees in background.

The U.S. Air Force is set to redeploy its Osprey aircraft globally within weeks, following extensive safety checks prompted by a deadly crash last year.

At a Glance

Air Force Special Operations Command plans to redeploy Osprey aircraft globally within weeks
Over 60% of the fleet and aircrew have returned to flying status
Safety checks ongoing, with three Ospreys cleared for flight every 10 days
Entire fleet expected to be operational by early 2025
Families of crash victims remain concerned about the aircraft’s safety

Osprey’s Return to Service

The U.S. Air Force is preparing to reintroduce its fleet of Osprey aircraft to global operations, following a grounding period initiated after a tragic crash in Japan last November. Lt. Gen. Michael Conley, commander of Air Force Special Operations Command, has expressed confidence in the aircraft’s readiness, stating that approximately 60% of the fleet has been cleared for flight.

The decision to return the Osprey to service comes after extensive safety reviews and mechanical upgrades. The Air Force has implemented new policies and procedures to address the issues that led to the November crash, which claimed the lives of eight airmen. Despite these measures, some families of crash victims remain skeptical about the aircraft’s safety.

Safety Measures and Operational Restrictions

As part of the reintroduction process, the Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) has imposed strict operational limits on the Osprey fleet. These restrictions include prohibiting flights more than 30 minutes away from suitable landing locations, a measure aimed at enhancing safety during potential emergencies.

The Air Force has also updated its protocols for responding to “chip burn” warning lights, which indicate potential issues with the aircraft’s gearbox. Crews are now instructed to land immediately after a single warning light and as soon as possible following a second light. These precautions are designed to prevent incidents similar to the November crash, which was attributed to a mechanical failure identified as early as 2013.

Ongoing Concerns and Future Outlook

While military leadership expresses confidence in the Osprey’s improved reliability, concerns persist among some families of service members who lost their lives in previous crashes. The aircraft’s troubled history, including four fatal crashes in the past two years resulting in 20 deaths, continues to cast a shadow over its redeployment.

“Our hearts go out to the families of the next unlucky Osprey crew,” the family member said. “Words cannot do the experience justice, but know that the Osprey families are here for you.”

Despite these concerns, the Air Force remains committed to the Osprey program. Lt. Gen. Conley has stated that there are no manufacturing concerns with Bell-Boeing, the aircraft’s manufacturer. The entire fleet of 51 CV-22s is expected to achieve full operational status by late 2024 or early 2025, with some units already approaching full mission readiness.

Conclusion

As the U.S. Air Force prepares to reintegrate the Osprey into its global operations, the focus remains on balancing operational needs with stringent safety measures. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether the implemented changes and upgrades will be sufficient to restore confidence in this unique and capable aircraft, both within the military ranks and among the families of those who serve.

Air Force Ospreys Set to Again Deploy Abroad After Deadly Crash, But Concerns Linger on Mechanical Issues https://t.co/NHIFmxdPXd

— Military.com (@Militarydotcom) September 18, 2024