A B-1B Lancer during a U. S. Air Force firepower demonstration near Indian Springs, Nev., in 2007. The Air Force announced it's grounding its entire fleet of B-1B bombers. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images, File)
The U.S. Air Force is grounding its B-1B bombers over a mechanical issue with the plane’s “drogue chute.” It’s the second time in almost a year and a half in which a temporary stand-down order was announced for the planes.
The problem is with the parachute feature connected with the pilot's ejection seat.
Reports said a routine inspection by airmen on one aircraft found a rigged "drogue chute" incorrectly installed. That raised concerns that the issue could affect other planes.
Currently, there are 62 B-1B Lancer bombers in the branch’s flight inventory. It is also referred by its nickname, the “Bone.”
The grounding should only last a “few weeks,” and no more than a month, according to officials.
AIR FORCE SQUADRONS SHOWCASE 'OVERWHELMING COMBAT AIRPOWER' DURING ELEPHANT WALK
The plane has been used extensively in Operation Inherent Resolve against Islamic State targets in Syria and Iraq, launching long-range cruise missiles. It is not a nuclear bomber, but rather deploys conventional weapons.
A U.S. Air Force B-1B Lancer taking off from Nellis Air Force Base in 2006. (Ethan Miller/Getty Images, File)
CLICK HERE TO GET THE FOX NEWS APP
In June 2018, the U.S. fleet was grounded for safety reasons for about three weeks due to an issue with the ejection seat system.
There are currently no B-1 bombers flying overseas, according to defense officials. They are predominantly housed at two domestic bases: Ellsworth Air Force Base in South Dakota and Dyess Air Force Base in Texas.
True Crime
The hottest stories ripped from the headlines, from crime to courts, legal and scandal.
By entering your email and clicking the Subscribe button, you agree to the Fox News Privacy Policy and Terms of Use, and agree to receive content and promotional communications from Fox News. You understand that you can opt-out at any time.
