Two EA-18 fighter jets collide at Mountain Home airshow, pilots ejected safely

Two U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler jets collided during an air show at Mountain Home Air Force Base on Sunday, resulting in the ejection of all four pilots involved. The incident occurred during a demonstration flight, with no injuries reported among personnel or spectators, and the base was placed under lockdown following the crash.

According to Cmdr. Amelia Umayam of Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet, the collision involved two EA-18G aircraft from the Electronic Attack Squadron 129 based in Whidbey Island, Washington. The jets were performing an aerial demonstration when they made contact, causing both aircraft to spin and eject their crew members. Videos from spectators show the jets colliding, with parachutes deploying as the planes fell and subsequently exploded upon impact near the base.

All four crew members ejected safely and are currently being evaluated by medical personnel. No injuries or fatalities among civilians or base personnel have been reported, and the base was temporarily locked down as a precaution. The incident disrupted the event, which was a major attraction featuring military demonstrations, including the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. Weather conditions at the time included good visibility and wind gusts up to 29 mph.

Why It Matters

This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns in military aviation displays, which are generally considered low-risk but can have serious consequences. The last fatal air show crash in the U.S. was in 2022, and overall, air show accidents remain rare but impactful. The safety of the pilots and spectators is a priority, and this event may lead to reviews of demonstration protocols and safety measures for future shows.

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Background

The Mountain Home Air Show is a significant event, held annually to showcase military aviation capabilities and celebrate aviation history. The 2023 show marked the first since 2018, after a hiatus due to safety concerns and the COVID-19 pandemic. Historically, air show accidents are infrequent; the last fatal incident was in 2003, and the industry has worked to improve safety standards over the years. The incident at Mountain Home is among the few recent crashes involving military jets during public demonstrations.

“The four crew members safely ejected and are being evaluated by medical personnel.”

— Cmdr. Amelia Umayam

“Everyone is safe and I think that’s the most important thing.”

— Kim Sykes, Silver Wings of Idaho

“The industry has seen a significant decline in fatalities over recent years, with no deaths in 2024 or 2025.”

— John Cudahy, International Council of Air Shows

What Remains Unclear

Details remain limited regarding the exact cause of the collision and whether mechanical or pilot error contributed. Investigation is ongoing, and officials have not yet released a final report or identified specific factors leading to the crash.

What’s Next

Authorities will conduct a thorough investigation into the collision, including aircraft maintenance records and pilot reports. The base and event organizers will review safety protocols, and future air shows may see updated safety measures or restrictions. The aircraft involved are being examined, and there may be further updates in the coming days.

Key Questions

Were the pilots injured in the crash?

No, all four pilots ejected safely and are currently being evaluated by medical personnel.

What caused the collision?

The exact cause of the collision is still under investigation. Authorities have not yet released specific details.

Will the air show continue as planned?

The event has been disrupted by the incident, and organizers have not announced whether it will proceed or be rescheduled.

Are there safety concerns after this incident?

While air show accidents are rare, this incident may prompt reviews of safety procedures and protocols to prevent future occurrences.