Two EA-18 fighter jets collided mid-air during an air show at a military base in Idaho on Sunday, with dramatic footage capturing the moment the aircraft appeared to smash into each other before plunging towards the ground in flames. Videos shared online showed four parachutes opening in the sky moments after the collision, indicating that all aircrew managed to eject safely.
Incident Details
The incident occurred during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Mountain Home Air Force Base, approximately 50 miles southeast of Boise. According to reports from local broadcaster IdahoNews, the two aircraft, believed to be EA-18G Growler fighter jets, were performing close-formation maneuvers when they collided roughly two miles from the base.
Witness Accounts
Witness videos showed the jets flying extremely close together before becoming entangled mid-air. Sparks were seen flying from the aircraft as they spiraled towards the ground, ending in a massive fireball and thick black smoke rising above the base.
Emergency Response
Emergency crews rushed to the scene as the base was immediately placed under lockdown. In a statement on social media, Mountain Home Air Force Base confirmed that responders were at the site and an investigation had been launched into the crash. Announcements at the base reportedly said all airmen involved had parachuted to safety and were “ok,” though officials did not immediately release further details about injuries or the cause of the collision.
Aftermath
Following the crash, organizers canceled the remainder of the Fighter Skies air show. Mountain Home Police also urged residents to avoid traveling to the base while emergency operations continued.
