F-22 Pilot Wins Top Safety Award for Masterful Emergency Landing

On September 18, 2024, Captain Michael Cloninger of the 90th Fighter Squadron at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson in Alaska found himself facing an unexpected crisis moments after taking off on a ceremonial flight. The right main wheel assembly of his F-22 Raptor detached shortly after liftoff during what was supposed to be a routine mission commemorating World War II's Battle of Britain. This incident, which occurred within the Central Command area of responsibility and likely near Royal Air Force Base Lakenheath in England, marked a critical moment for Cloninger as he had to quickly devise an emergency plan.

Cloninger immediately canceled the planned flyover and began circling the airfield while assessing his options. With no established protocol for such an unusual situation, the pilot relied on his extensive training and quick thinking. He spent approximately one hour in the air, gradually burning off fuel to reduce the risk of damage upon landing. Once he determined it was safe to proceed, Cloninger initiated a shallow approach and executed a controlled belly landing without causing significant harm to the aircraft or himself.

The F-22, valued at $150 million, sustained minimal damage during the emergency landing, thanks largely to Cloninger's skillful handling of the situation. The pilot successfully powered down the jet after ensuring it did not catch fire, demonstrating his expertise and composure under extreme pressure.

In recognition of his exceptional airmanship, Captain Cloninger was presented with the Air Force’s 2025 Koren Kolligian Jr. Trophy at a ceremony recently held by the service. The award is named after First Lieutenant Koren Kolligian Jr., who disappeared in 1955 while flying a T-33 off the coast of California, and it honors aircrew members who have demonstrated extraordinary skill or ingenuity to prevent accidents or minimize their impact.

Air Force Chief of Staff General Kenneth Wilsbach praised Cloninger’s performance during the emergency landing, emphasizing his disciplined approach and reliance on teamwork. "You faced an unforeseen emergency while carrying a full combat load thousands of miles from home," Wilsbach stated at the ceremony. "Your ability to trust your training, listen to your teammates, and make sound decisions is what we expect from all American Airmen."

Cloninger attributed his success in part to the support of his fellow crew members who assisted with communications and checklist adherence during the crisis. “Without my teammates assisting with communication and walking through the checklists,” Cloninger said, “I truly believe I wouldn’t be standing here today.”

This incident highlights the critical importance of pilot training and rapid decision-making in military aviation, underscoring why such awards are crucial for recognizing exemplary performance under extreme circumstances.