Israel Air Force Major Ohad Cohen Nov Z”L, 34, was the pilot killed while trying to land his F-16a after returning from a mission from Gaza. It was reported that he and his navigator had to eject from the plane and while the navigator is okay, Major Ohad was killed.

IAF Commander Amir Eshel has ordered a probe into the mishap. At present, it is being explained that the pilot fired a rocket at his objective in Gaza in retaliation for rocket fire into Sderot earlier in the day. He was returning to base with rockets still loaded to the plane, causing an imbalance. This led to difficulties and complications when trying to land the plane after a fire erupted, leading to the fatal outcome. The cause of the blaze on the plane is under investigation. It is pointed out that Major Cohen Nov was a very experienced and accomplished pilot. This past week, he assumed his new assignment as deputy squadron commander.

A fire broke out in the plane as he was preparing to land and the navigator, who was seated behind him, ejected safely. Ohad apparently delayed his exit, trying to save the plane, and was killed as a result as the plane crashed just dozens of meters from base.

Major Cohen Nov is survived by his pregnant wife Shachar and their young daughter, his parents and two sisters. Levaya details to be announced.

יהי זכרו ברוך

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem/Photo: IDF Spokesman Unit)