English 
Spanish 
4 min read
0 comments
During a training flight, Captain Harry McMahon faced a catastrophic engine failure in an F-16 and, with skill and calm, avoided tragedy. His feat earned him one of the most prestigious awards in the U.S. Air Force. His story inspires aviators and reinforces the value of rigorous training in military aviation.
When a routine flight in South Korea turns into one of the most tense episodes in military aviation, the world stops to hear the story.
An American pilot, faced with catastrophic engine failure on one of the world's most advanced fighter jets, did the impossible.
With cool-headedness and exceptional skills, he not only saved an aircraft valued at $40 million, but also reaffirmed the value of rigorous military training.
- Turkey surprises the world with Bayraktar KIZILELMA: supersonic unmanned fighter dominates the skies with AESA radar, revolutionary technology and success in historic flight test
- Legendary aircraft carrier for sale for a penny! The iconic 87.000-ton USS John F. Kennedy leaves history behind and heads for scrapping on her final mission
- China takes drastic decision and restricts global export of strategic products used in civil and military spheres
- China wants to conquer the world and Brazil can help! Asian giant proposes to modernize FAB, but wants something in return: access to the Alcântara Launch Center to expand its activities in America
But how did it all happen? And what led Captain Harry McMahon to risk his life to prevent a tragedy in the air?
Emergency in mid-flight
According to the portal Military Society, on July 28, 2023, during advanced combat training in South Korea, Captain Harry “Butcher” McMahon of the United States Air Force (USAF) faced a situation that demanded the maximum of his skills.
His F-16 Fighting Falcon, one of the most iconic fighters in military aviation, suffered a critical engine failure. This left the pilot without propulsion in mid-flight, forcing him to perform a maneuver known as “flameout landing”, or landing without power.
According to information from Air Force from the US, McMahon diverted his aircraft to Cheongju Air Base in South Korea, considered the safest location for emergencies in that region.
However, what was already complicated became even more challenging: two South Korean F-35 fighter jets were given clearance to take off in the opposite direction to McMahon's route, creating a scenario of heavy and potentially fatal air traffic.
Coldness and precision avoided the worst and saved the F-16 fighter
Despite the imminent danger, McMahon demonstrated an impressive level of control and skill. He maneuvered his aircraft with pinpoint accuracy to avoid a collision as South Korean F-35s flew overhead.
According to Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Allvin, the captain's performance exemplifies the true spirit of an American aviator.
“His calm under pressure and ability to make quick decisions were crucial in saving the F-16 and averting a tragedy,” Allvin said during the awards ceremony at the Pentagon.
McMahon's success highlighted not only his courage, but also the effectiveness of the rigorous training provided by the U.S. Air Force.
The recognition of a heroic act
In recognition of his extraordinary achievement, McMahon received the Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy, one of the most prestigious honors in American military aviation.
Created in 1955, the award is given to pilots who demonstrate exceptional skills and follow strict safety protocols to save lives and equipment in extreme situations.
The ceremony was held at the Pentagon and was attended by military leaders and the pilot's family. During the event, McMahon highlighted the role of advanced training and simulators in developing his skills.
“The Air Force is on the right track by investing in technologies that simulate real combat situations. This was critical to my performance,” McMahon declared humbly.
The value of military training
The situation faced by McMahon serves as an example of how preparation is essential in military aviation.
Even after activating the aircraft's Emergency Power Unit, which maintained only the fighter's basic operational functions, the pilot was unable to restore the engine.
It was necessary to follow each emergency procedure to the letter and rely completely on your training.
This disciplined approach saved not only the fighter, valued at around R$200 million, but also the lives of the pilot himself and others involved in air traffic.
The F-16 and its rich history
The F-16 Fighting Falcon, which completed 50 years since its maiden flight, is one of the most versatile and respected aircraft in the North American arsenal.
Operating on combat missions around the world, it continues to be a symbol of excellence in military aviation.
McMahon's episode reinforces that reputation, while also highlighting the importance of being prepared for the unexpected.
According to the USAF, actions like the captain's inspire generations of pilots and demonstrate the value of investing in safety and advanced training.
An example for the future
By receiving the Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy, McMahon not only cemented his place in military aviation history, but also reinforced the Air Force’s commitment to operational safety. His extraordinary achievement will continue to inspire aviators around the world.
After all, stories like this show that, in times of crisis, training and courage can make all the difference.
Do you think that the current training of military forces is sufficient to face even more complex emergencies in the future?
