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 crew members and no reported injuries on the ground.

All four crew members from the two jets safely ejected after the collision, which occurred during an aerial demonstration. The incident was confirmed by Cmdr. Amelia Umayam of Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet. The jets involved were from the Electronic Attack Squadron 129 based in Whidbey Island, Washington.

Eyewitness videos show the aircraft making contact, spinning, and then crashing, with parachutes deploying as the planes fell and exploded into fireballs near the base. No injuries or damage to civilians or base personnel have been reported, and the base was placed under lockdown following the incident.

Why It Matters

This incident highlights ongoing safety concerns at military air shows, which are generally considered low-risk but can involve high-stakes accidents. The safe ejection of all crew members underscores the effectiveness of safety protocols, but the crash raises questions about operational risks during demonstration flights.

It also marks a rare mid-air collision involving military jets at a public event, prompting a review of safety measures at air shows nationwide. The event’s impact on future military demonstrations and public confidence remains to be seen.

Background

The incident occurred during the Gunfighter Skies air show, which is a significant event at Mountain Home AFB, featuring modern military aircraft and historical demonstrations. The last major accident at this event was in 2018, when a hang glider died during a performance. Historically, air show accidents are rare, with the last fatal incident in the U.S. occurring in 2022, when six people died after two vintage planes collided in Dallas.

According to industry data, fatalities at U.S. air shows average about one per year over the past decade, with no deaths in 2024 or 2025. The incident at Mountain Home is under investigation by military authorities, and the specific cause of the collision has not yet been disclosed.

“All 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

“Safety at air shows has improved significantly, with fatalities now averaging about one per year.”

— John Cudahy, President of the International Council of Air Shows

What Remains Unclear

Details about the specific cause of the collision are still emerging. The investigation is ongoing, and it is not yet clear whether technical failure, pilot error, or other factors contributed to the crash.

What’s Next

Authorities will continue their investigation into the collision, including analyzing aircraft data and witness reports. The military may implement additional safety measures for future demonstrations. A full report is expected in the coming weeks.

Key Questions

Were there any injuries on the ground during the crash?

No, there have been no reports of injuries among spectators or base personnel.

What caused the collision between the jets?

The cause is currently unknown; investigators are analyzing data and witness statements to determine the factors involved.

Will the air show continue as planned?

It is unclear at this stage; authorities have not announced any cancellations or disruptions, but the event is under review.

Are similar incidents common at military air shows?

Mid-air collisions are rare; industry data shows fatalities are infrequent, with recent years seeing no deaths at U.S. air shows.