The 2023 Hawk flight accident in Keuruu was caused by the breaking of the low-pressure compressor LPC2 wing during flight, according to a statement from the Finnish Air Force. It was revealed that the damage leading to the break likely occurred three flights prior, when the aircraft entered a severe side slip during a maneuver. This suggests that the stress from earlier flights may have contributed to the catastrophic failure of the wing during a subsequent flight.

The investigation team noted that the wing break was the result of various factors interacting, and it is currently indeterminate when specifically the damage occurred or the complexities of the mechanisms that led to the break. Colonel Vesa Mäntylä expressed doubts that the underlying cause of the engine fault may remain a mystery, as the engine failure noted was rare and there has been no similar case to draw comparisons from. This raises concerns about the reliability and safety of the aircraft structure under certain stress conditions.

Overall, this incident highlights the challenges faced in investigating aviation accidents where multiple variables can affect outcomes. The extended duration of the investigation relative to typical accident inquiries points to the complexity of the case and the need for further analysis to ensure aviation safety. Without clear parallels in past data, aviation authorities may need to consider revisiting safety protocols regarding similar aircraft to prevent future incidents.