Two US Navy fighter jets crash after mid-air collision during air show

Two US Navy fighter jets crashed following a mid-air collision during an air show in the US state of Idaho on Sunday (May 17).

According to NBC News, the incident took palce during the “Gunfighter Skies” air show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. The aircraft involved were two EA-18G Growler electronic warfare jets operated by the US Navy.

Authorities confirmed that all four crew members aboard the two aircraft managed to eject safely moments before the crash and survived the incident.

In a statement, event organisers said the collision took place about two miles northwest of the military installation. Emergency response teams rushed to the scene immediately after the crash, while an investigation was launched to determine the cause of the accident.

Videos circulating on social media showed the two fighter jets losing control after colliding in mid-air before plunging to the ground. Massive explosions erupted upon impact, sending thick black smoke billowing into the sky. Footage also showed four parachutes descending slowly as the crew members ejected from the aircraft.

The crashed EA-18G Growler jets were reportedly operating from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington state.

Following the incident, authorities canceled the remainder of the air show and imposed a lockdown at the military base for security reasons.

The EA-18G Growler is one of the US Navy’s primary electronic warfare aircraft, designed to conduct radar jamming and advanced combat support missions. The crash has raised fresh concerns over aerial safety during military demonstration events.