A dramatic mid air collision involving two US Navy military jets shocked spectators during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show in Idaho on Sunday. Despite the frightening incident, all four crew members safely ejected before the aircraft crashed near Mountain Home Air Force Base.
According to US Navy officials, the accident happened around 12:10pm MDT while the aircraft were performing an aerial demonstration for the crowd. The two aircraft involved were identified as E/A 18G Growler jets, part of the Navy’s electronic warfare fleet. Officials confirmed that the jets collided approximately two miles away from the air base during the live performance.
The four air crew members aboard the aircraft managed to eject safely moments before the crash. Emergency teams immediately responded to the area, and no deaths or major injuries were reported. The quick ejection of the pilots and crew likely prevented a much larger tragedy at the popular event.
The aircraft belonged to Electronic Attack Squadron 129, based at Whidbey Island, Washington. The squadron’s Growler Demo Team had been scheduled as one of the headline attractions at the air show. Spectators witnessed the collision during what was meant to be one of the event’s most anticipated aerial performances.
Following the incident, authorities temporarily locked down Mountain Home Air Force Base as emergency responders secured the crash site and launched an investigation. US Navy spokesperson Commander Amelia Umayam stated that officials are now examining the cause of the collision and more details will be released after the investigation progresses.
The Gunfighter Skies Air Show had returned this year after an eight year break. Sadly, the event has previously witnessed tragedy, as a hang glider pilot died during the last edition held in 2018.
The incident has once again raised concerns about safety measures during military air demonstrations, although the successful ejection of all crew members was seen as a positive outcome in a potentially deadly situation.
