Covington Air Force Captain among six killed in Iraq refueling plane crash

Captain Ariana G. Savino, 31, was one of six U.S. service members who died in the incident during Operation Epic Fury.

Apr. 13, 2026 at 4:23am

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A serene, cinematic painting of a solitary KC-135 Stratotanker aircraft in warm, golden light, conveying the somber mood of a tragic military loss.The tragic loss of a refueling plane in Iraq underscores the sacrifices made by U.S. service members in defense of their country.Covington Today

The U.S. military's recent refueling plane crash in Iraq has claimed the lives of six service members, including Captain Ariana G. Savino, a 31-year-old from Covington, Washington. Savino was a dedicated pilot who had rapidly risen through the ranks, earning her wings in 2025 and deploying twice in support of U.S. Central Command operations. The incident, which occurred in friendly airspace, is under investigation, though not due to friendly fire.

Why it matters

The loss of Captain Savino and her fellow service members has sparked tributes from political figures and community leaders, highlighting the sacrifices made by those who serve in the U.S. military. The KC-135 Stratotanker involved in the crash plays a critical role in refueling other aircraft and conducting medical evacuations, underscoring the importance of this type of military asset.

The details

Captain Ariana G. Savino graduated from Central Washington University in 2017 and earned her active duty commission through the Air Force Reserve Officer Training Corps. She was promoted to Captain by 2021 and earned her wings as a Pilot within the U.S. Air Force by 2025. Savino had deployed twice, in 2020 and 2026, in support of United States Central Command Operations SPARTAN SHIELD, SENTINEL SENTRY, and EPIC FURY, logging 348 combat hours as a Combat Systems Operator and Pilot of a KC-135 Stratotanker.

  • The incident occurred during Operation Epic Fury.
  • Savino earned her wings as a Pilot within the U.S. Air Force by 2025.
  • Savino had deployed twice, in 2020 and 2026, in support of United States Central Command Operations.

The players

Captain Ariana G. Savino

A 31-year-old pilot from Covington, Washington, who was one of six U.S. service members killed in the refueling plane crash in Iraq.

King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn

Expressed sadness over the loss of Captain Savino and emphasized the sacrifice she made in service to her country.

Senator Murray

Shared a heartfelt statement praising the courage and sacrifice of Captain Savino and the other fallen Air Force Airmen.

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What they’re saying

“The loss of Captain Savino and her fellow service members has sparked a wave of tributes and condolences from political figures and community leaders.”

— King County Councilmember Reagan Dunn

“Senator Murray also shared a heartfelt statement, praising the courage and sacrifice of Savino and the other fallen Air Force Airmen.”

— Senator Murray

What’s next

The U.S. military and its allies will continue to investigate the cause of the crash and take steps to prevent similar incidents in the future.

The takeaway

The loss of Captain Savino and her fellow service members serves as a reminder of the diverse roles and responsibilities within the military, from pilots to combat systems operators, all working together to protect the nation. Their sacrifice and legacy will inspire future generations to serve with unwavering dedication and courage.