A dramatic mid-air collision between two U S Navy EA-18G Growler fighter jets disrupted an air show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on Sunday, leading to an immediate lockdown of the base and cancellation of the remaining events.
The incident occurred during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show, when the two aircraft collided while performing an aerial demonstration. The jets went down roughly two miles outside the base, sending up thick black smoke that was visible from the ground. Videos from the scene showed the aircraft breaking apart after impact, followed by four parachutes descending safely.
Authorities confirmed that all four crew members onboard the two jets successfully ejected and survived the crash. They were later reported to be in stable condition. Emergency responders rushed to the crash site soon after the incident, while security forces secured the area.
The Mountain Home Air Force Base was placed under lockdown as a precaution. Officials also announced the cancellation of the rest of the air show, which had drawn large crowds and marked the return of the Gunfighter Skies event after several years.
The EA-18G Growler jets involved in the crash are specialised U S Navy electronic warfare aircraft typically used for jamming and support missions. The aircraft were part of a scheduled demonstration team performing at the event.
Eyewitnesses described scenes of shock as the jets collided mid-air during the display. Despite the severity of the crash, the successful ejection of all crew members prevented fatalities, which officials described as a major relief.
