KADENA AIR BASE, Okinawa — Pilots here are being briefed to carefully review and comply with safety procedures following the separation of a flare from a Kadena-based F-15C jet Friday.

The incident occurred about 11 a.m. when the pilot mistakenly released the flare on his final approach to land following a routine training mission, according to 18th Wing public affairs.

“The flare … landed on the ground in the U.S. Army fueling yard near Highway 58, burning a 10-inch-diameter circle on the ground,” the press release stated. “Kadena F-15C pilots routinely train using flares in over-water warning areas and are required to comply with strict written procedures for de-activating the flare system prior to departing those areas.”

After the incident, 18th Wing Vice Commander, Col. Jeff Kennedy, directed all flying squadron commanders to ensure their pilots review and comply with mandatory in-flight safety procedures.

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