28 April 1977 (F-111C A8-136) – 1st F-111 accident
Inflight fire and ejection near Armidale, NSW
Pilot: CAPT William BAKER
Cat B – 2493.2 hrs total time/1624.6 hrs F-111 (USAF Exchange)
Navigator: FLTLT David “Noddy" CLARKSON
Cat C – 4662.4 hrs total time / 292.7 hrs F-111
During an emergency diversion following a right engine oil hot indication, the aircraft suffered a severe internal explosion. The engine throttles jammed in their selected position, the right engine fire light illuminated and could not be extinguished, and shortly thereafter the pilot could not retain control of the aircraft. An ejection was initiated and the aircraft crashed 14 nm north of Armidale, NSW. The ejection was successful, with the crew suffering minor injuries as a result of crew module ground impact forces.
USAF Exchange Pilot, CAPT Billy Baker and Navigator, FLTLT Dave Clarkson, being interviewed after their successful F-111C ejection
F-111C crew module after successful ejection
