U.S. Air Force Accident Classification and Monetary Valuation

Summary

The United States Air Force uses a classification system to measure the severity of aviation accidents, with Class A being the most severe. A monetary threshold, currently set at $2.5 million, defines a Class A mishap, but recent advancements in fifth-generation stealth aircraft and upcoming sixth-generation technology necessitate a re-evaluation of this standard. For example, the cost of repainting an F-35 could classify a minor incident as a Class A or B, whereas a similar situation with an F-15 might only qualify as a Class E, potentially leading to disproportionate scrutiny and unnecessary dismissals of pilots operating more expensive aircraft.