Java GC (Allocation Failure)

"Allocation Failure" is cause of GC to kick is not correct. It is an outcome of GC operation.

GC kicks in when there is no space to allocate( depending on region minor or major GC is performed). Once GC is performed if space is freed good enough, but if there is not enough size it fails. Allocation Failure is one such failure. Below document have good explanation https://docs.oracle.com/javase/8/docs/technotes/guides/vm/gctuning/g1_gc.html

"Allocation Failure" is a cause of GC cycle to kick in.

"Allocation Failure" means that no more space left in Eden to allocate object. So, it is normal cause of young GC.

Older JVM were not printing GC cause for minor GC cycles.

"Allocation Failure" is almost only possible cause for minor GC. Another reason for minor GC to kick could be CMS remark phase (if +XX:+ScavengeBeforeRemark is enabled).