Rafale B unintended ejection

[boff180]

The story is now doing the rounds in the aviation press so thought some would like to discuss it here

Wednesday a Rafale B was taking off with a 64yo civilian in the back seat.... for some unknown reason (whether accidental or malfunction) the civilian departed the aircraft during the take off sequence via ejecting!

The passenger has quite badly injured in the incident and is now recovering in hospital. The pilot was also injured after being struck by shards of canopy glass. The tail of the Rafale was also damaged in the incident but the pilot was able to land the aircraft safely.

This might seem a little comical however the incident could have very easily ended in tragedy. The French have now started no less than three (I understand) separate investigations into the matter.

Andy

[capercaillie]

Did the passenger win the flight in some kind of prize draw.........?

[Marathon Milkshake]

Just how tempting is it to pull those handles? just for the sheer hell of it? curiosity killed the cat and all that.

[speedbird2639]

You only regret the things you never do. "When will I be in this situation again?" "Bang!"

[starbuck]

You only regret the things you never do. "When will I be in this situation again?" "Bang!"

yes, but have the flight first surely??

[Stagger2]

It's an age issue. He just got to excited & bang....simple case of Premature Ejection!

[skidd40]

All that just to get a Tie