Two U.S. Navy fighter jets collided midair during an air show Sunday afternoon at Mountain Home Air Force Base, prompting an immediate lockdown and cancellation of the event.
According to the U.S. Navy, the crash involved two EA-18 Growler jets performing at the Gunfighter Skies Air Show near Boise.
All Four Crew Members Ejected Safely
Navy officials said all four crew members aboard the aircraft successfully ejected before the jets crashed.
Shane Ogden
Cmdr. Amelia Umayam confirmed the crews were medically evaluated and listed in stable condition following the incident.
The collision occurred around 12:10 p.m. local time while the jets were conducting an aerial demonstration.
Video Captures Dramatic Crash
Bystander video showed the two aircraft flying close together before colliding in midair. Moments later, the jets spiraled toward the ground as parachutes deployed from the aircraft.
Footage also captured a large plume of black smoke after the planes crashed and exploded on the ground.
The aircraft were assigned to the Navy’s Electronic Attack Squadron based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island.
Air Show Cancelled After Incident
The Mountain Home Police Department announced the air show was canceled immediately following the crash and urged spectators to avoid traveling to the base.
Officials said the cause of the collision remains under investigation. For more details, stay tuned to Que Onda Magazine.