The Rafale was launched from Air Base 118 Mont-de-Marsan for a training mission. NATO designates such practice launches as Tango Scrambles, during which fighter crews and air traffic controllers rehearse the full interception sequence. An Alpha Scramble denotes an operational launch, whether to investigate an aircraft of concern or assist one in difficulty. The French Air and Space Force conducts Tango Scramble drills daily.

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The pilot then noticed a third trail alongside the aircraft’s usual contrails, thinner and dissipating more quickly. Closing in to resolve the doubt, the pilot registered a smell of kerosene and identified fuel escaping from the business jet’s right wing, the command said.