Pilot error is the cause of the fatal U-2 spy plane crash in the Sutter Buttes that happened 7 months ago. Major A.J. Schrag, at the Air Combat Command Public Affairs Office in Langley, Virginia, says the pilot, who’s name is not being released, was on his first flight, with an instructor pilot, on September 20th of last year…

click to listen to Major Schrag

Both pilots ejected. The instructor pilot, Lt. Colonel Ira Eadie, was killed, after the seat he was in struck one of the aircraft’s wings. The training pilot, whose name is not being released, received minor injuries…

click to listen to Major Schrag

Schrag says the terrain of the Sutter Buttes was not a factor. The plane crashed into grassy hills, also sparking a 250-acre wildfire. The U-2 was a total loss and was worth around $32 million. It had been assigned to the 1st Reconnaisance Squadron of Beale Air Force Base, where the planes are based.The training pilot is still on active duty.