Pilots refuse to fly Raptor fighter jet

WASHINGTON, May 7 (UPI) -- Two Air National Guard pilots said they have refused to fly the U.S. Air Force's newest fighter jet after oxygen problems caused them to become disoriented.

Maj. Jeremy Gordon and Capt. Joshua Wilson of the Virginia Air National Guard appeared on CBS's "60 Minutes" Sunday with Rep. Adam Kinzinger, R-Ill., a pilot and captain in the Air National Guard, the Chicago Sun-Times reported.

The two pilots took their concerns about the F-22 Raptor to the congressman because the Military Whistleblower Protection Act prohibits reprisals against military personnel who bring concerns to members of Congress.

"You have a right to talk to your congressman because just 'cause you join the military doesn't mean you give up your right to citizenship," Kinzinger said on "60 Minutes."

The Air Force said Monday a "very small" number of Raptor pilots had refused to fly the plane or had asked to be transferred to other duty.

The fighter planes, which cost $143 million each, were grounded four months last year after pilots complained a lack of oxygen could could cause dizziness and blackouts.

Air Force officials said they've taken steps in response to the problem but have not specifically identified what caused the symptoms.

Lockheed Martin made the planes.