Ask Onix
Mid-air collision at Idaho air show
Four US Navy crew members are in stable condition after two EA-18G Growler jets collided during an aerial demonstration at the Gunfighter Skies air show near Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho, on Sunday.
Incident details
The collision occurred approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) northwest of the base during the second and final day of the event. Both aircraft were part of an electronic attack squadron based in Washington state, according to a US Navy spokesperson.
The jets, each valued at roughly $67 million (£50.3 million), were performing when they crashed. All four crew members ejected safely, though it remains unclear whether they sustained injuries.
Response and aftermath
A fire broke out following the collision, prompting a temporary lockdown of the base. The remainder of the air show was canceled as emergency crews responded to the scene.
Mountain Home Air Force Base confirmed in a social media statement that the affected crew members were in stable condition and receiving medical evaluation. The base also expressed gratitude to attendees for their patience and cooperation during the response.
Previous incidents
The Gunfighter Skies air show was last held in 2018, when a glider pilot died in a separate accident. Organizers, including Silver Wings of Idaho, confirmed that no additional injuries occurred on the base during Sunday's incident.
Investigation underway
An official investigation into the collision has been launched. The US Navy and Mountain Home Air Force Base have not yet provided further details. The BBC has reached out to both the base and event organizers for additional comment.
"Thank you to all our guests for your patience and compassion, which has allowed us to quickly and safely respond to the incident."
Mountain Home Air Force Base
