Two Fighter Jets Collide Midair at Idaho Air Show, Crews Eject Safely

Two U.S. Navy fighter jets collided in midair during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on Sunday, forcing the cancellation of the event’s second day. The incident occurred around 12:10 p.m. local time approximately two miles northwest of the base, according to officials.

The aircraft involved were two EA-18G jets from Electronic Attack Squadron 129, based at Whidbey Island, Washington. Four aircrew members were aboard the two planes. All successfully ejected and parachuted to safety, with medical personnel evaluating them following the crash, said Cmdr. Amelia Umayam, spokesperson for Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet.

Videos shared on social media captured the moment the jets collided and became entangled before spiraling toward the ground amid plumes of black smoke. Four parachutes were visible deploying near the crash site. Witnesses described a calm and controlled atmosphere among attendees, many of whom were military families.

Mountain Home Air Force Base, home to the 366th Fighter Wing known as the “Gunfighters,” announced a lockdown shortly after the incident and confirmed emergency responders were on scene. The base stated that an investigation into the crash is underway and that further details will be released as they become available.

The Gunfighter Skies Air Show is an annual event celebrating aviation history and showcasing modern military capabilities, featuring flying demonstrations and parachute jumps. The U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds flight demonstration squadron headlined the show on both days. The base canceled the remainder of the air show following the crash and advised the public to avoid traveling to the area.

On Saturday, the first day of the air show, the base had posted photos highlighting the event’s memorable moments, anticipating a repeat on Sunday before the accident occurred.