A mid-air collision involving two US Navy EA-18G Growler fighter jets dramatically disrupted the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on Sunday. The incident, which occurred just after 12:30 pm local time, saw both aircraft crash approximately two miles outside the base perimeter. Remarkably, all four crew members aboard the jets safely ejected, a fact later confirmed by the US Navy.
Emergency Response and Base Lockdown
Emergency crews were on the scene within minutes of the collision. Videos circulated online showed the moment of impact and the subsequent appearance of four parachutes in the sky, bringing relief to thousands of spectators. Following the crash, Mountain Home Air Force Base implemented a precautionary lockdown, and all remaining events scheduled for Sunday were cancelled.
A spokesperson for the base stated, "Emergency responders are on the scene, and an investigation is underway, and more details will be released as they become available."
Air Show's Return and Past Incidents
The Gunfighter Skies Air Show marked its return this weekend after an eight-year hiatus, attracting a large crowd eager to witness military aircraft displays. Organizers had reportedly spent nearly two years in preparation, with extensive safety teams present throughout the event.
This incident, however, brings back uncomfortable memories of previous accidents at Mountain Home Air Force Base. In 2018, a hang glider pilot died after crashing onto the runway during an event. Prior to that, a Thunderbirds jet crashed during the 2003 air show, though its pilot successfully ejected.
Investigators continue to examine the crash site, and further details are anticipated as the inquiry progresses.