Marine Corps Investigation Attributes F-35 Crash to Pilot Error Amid Technical Malfunction and Poor Weather

In September 2023, an F-35B Lightning II crashed in South Carolina due to pilot error and spatial disorientation, according to a report released by the Marine Corps. Col. Charles "Tre" Del Pizzo, the pilot, was forced to eject from the aircraft due to numerous electrical malfunctions and the loss of critical navigational aids. Del Pizzo was left disoriented and without a distinct reference point as a result of a series of technical failures, including the loss of helmet displays, radio communication, and navigational systems, which, in conjunction with poor weather, were cited in the report.

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The investigation also indicated that spatial disorientation was a contributing factor in Del Pizzo's decision to evacuate while the aircraft was still capable of flight. The F-35 continued to fly unmanned for more than 11 minutes after his ejection, before crashes in a forested area 60 miles distant.

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Del Pizzo was relieved of his command of Marine Operational Test and Evaluation Squadron One by the Marine Corps, despite the fact that the investigation did not uncover any justification for punitive action. Leadership assured Col. Del Pizzo, who had a considerable military background, that the incident would not affect his career. However, he was subsequently relieved of his duties after less than 100 days in command.

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