A shocking mid-air collision between two US fighter jets took place during an air show in Idaho on Sunday, forcing authorities to put Mountain Home Air Force Base under lockdown. The incident happened during the popular Gunfighter Skies Air Show, which had returned after eight years.
What exactly happened?
According to local reports, the crash occurred shortly after 12:30 pm (local time). The aircraft involved were two EA-18G Growler fighter jets. They collided in the air and crashed around two miles outside the air base. Videos shared on social media showed the jets hitting each other mid-air and breaking apart within seconds.
Did the crew survive?
Soon after the collision, four parachutes were seen coming down, raising hopes for survival. Officials later confirmed that all four crew members safely ejected before the crash. The US Navy also confirmed that there were no immediate reports of fatalities.
Emergency teams quickly reached the crash site as thick black smoke was seen rising from the area. Authorities immediately canceled all remaining events scheduled for Sunday. Police also confirmed that the air base was placed under lockdown as a precaution.
Officials said that emergency responders are still at the scene and an investigation has been launched to find out what caused the accident. More details are expected soon.
The air show had attracted thousands of visitors, with organisers preparing for nearly two years. However, this incident has brought back memories of past accidents at the same base. In 2018, a hang glider pilot died in a crash, while in 2003, a Thunderbirds jet crashed during an air show, though the pilot survived.
