Two EA-18 fighter planes collided during an airshow at a base in Idaho, Idaho on Sunday. Dramatic video captured the moment that the aircraft appeared to smash against each other before plummeting into the ground. Videos shared on the internet showed four parachutes opening up in the air moments after the collision. This indicated that all crew members were able to safely eject.
This incident occurred at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, about 50 miles south of Boise. IdahoNews reported that the two aircraft, believed by the broadcaster to be EA-18G Growler jet fighters, were performing close formation manoeuvres when the collision occurred. The base is located about two miles away. Witness videos showed that the jets were flying very close together, before becoming entangled in mid-air. As the aircraft spiraled towards the ground, sparks were seen flying out of the aircraft. The fireball and thick black clouds of smoke that rose above the base was the result. Emergency crews raced to the scene, as the base immediately went into lockdown. Mountain Home Air Force Base issued a social media statement confirming that responders had arrived at the crash site and that an investigation was underway. The base announced that all airmen had parachuted out safely and were in good health. However, officials did release no further information about the injuries or cause of the crash. The remainder of the Fighter Skies Air Show was cancelled after the crash. Mountain Home Police has also asked residents to avoid traveling to the base as emergency operations continue.
