Two US Navy fighter jets collided mid-air during an air show near Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on Sunday, but all four crew members safely ejected, according to the Navy.
Commander Amelia Umayam, spokesperson for Naval Air Forces, US Pacific Fleet, said the two E/A-18G Growler aircraft crashed about two miles from the base while taking part in an aerial demonstration at the Gunfighter Skies Air Show around 12:10pm MDT. She confirmed that all four aircrew members escaped safely after ejecting from the jets.
“The incident is under investigation. More information will be released as it becomes available,” Umayam said.
The event’s official website had listed the US Navy’s E/A-18G “Vikings” Growler Demo Team among the featured performers. Umayam added that the aircraft involved belonged to Electronic Attack Squadron 129, based on Whidbey Island in Washington state.
Authorities said part of State Highway 167, near the crash site, will stay closed for several days as investigators examine the incident. The 366th Fighter Wing at Mountain Home Air Force Base confirmed the closure.
The Gunfighter Skies Air Show was being held for the first time in eight years. During the previous edition in 2018, a hang glider pilot was killed in a crash.
Local emergency agencies, including the Mountain Home Fire Department, Mountain Home Police Department, and Elmore County emergency management coordinator, did not immediately comment on the incident.
