Mountain Home Air Force Base, Idaho – Two United States Navy jets collided in mid-air on Sunday during the 'Gunfighter Skies Air Show', forcing their four crew members to eject safely. The incident occurred approximately two miles northwest of the base, prompting an immediate cancellation of the remainder of the two-day event.
All four naval aviators aboard the E/A-18G Growler aircraft ejected and were reported to be in stable condition. Videos circulating from the scene depict the jets tangling, followed by the deployment of parachutes as the aircraft descended, one reportedly catching fire before hitting the ground.
The 'Gunfighter Skies Air Show', which featured a lineup including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds, was taking place at Mountain Home Air Force Base. While the crash site was noted as not being directly on the base itself, officials requested spectators to remain in the flightline area to facilitate emergency response efforts. No personnel on the military base were reported injured.
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The collision involved aircraft from the Navy's Growler Airshow Team. This unit comprises four pilots and four electronic warfare officers. The air show, designed to showcase various military aviation capabilities, included vintage aircraft alongside performances by Navy and Air Force demonstration squadrons. The International Council of Air Shows has historically noted an average of approximately two fatalities per year at U.S. air shows, a statistic that highlights the inherent risks associated with such events.
