I don't really see what the pilot was thinking as far as a good outcome by flying an unstable and not fully-configured approach. He ultimately, screwed the pooch and had to eject anyway...About all he did was make it easier for the investigators to get to the site!
Pilots are selected and trained to be success oriented. Regardless of proper procedure, there is also occasionally a contrary, innate and subconscious propensity to "save the aircraft' because "losing and aircraft" regardless of even overwhelming reasons not to, is too often contrary to a Naval Aviator's or AF Pilot's psyche.... it is tantamount to a failure.
Unfortunately while their's is a desirable perseverance in most instances, this propensity to stay with an aircraft far too long has killed too many. In fact, it killed some I once knew. But it is a real thing; maybe a common thing.
As an aside, my having once had the option on base radio from my CO to either eject, or attempt a landing – and with our Ops'. Officer strongly favoring an ejection - I chose the later - a landing.
Uncontrollable below 240 knots, I still landed without incident.
[Although I will admit though that being on fire – as I was not but which I have been, but put it out – is a horse of a different color. ]
We are chosen to make tough decisions. Some work; some don't. But our average surpasses the common man or woman. And if you ain't the man in the arena at the moment, it is tough to judge what you would correctly do... or not do.
