Dramatic video captures pilots ejecting seconds before fighter jets crash at Idaho show

ELMORE COUNTY, EDAHO: Video shows the moment pilot crew members safely ejected into the air just before two fighter jets collided mid-air during an Idaho air show celebrating America’s 250th birthday on Sunday, May 17.

The incident forced the Mountain Home Air Force Base into an immediate lockdown as emergency teams responded to the runway crash.

Crew safely ejects before impact

The video footage captured the moment the two fighter jets hit each other and spun toward the ground as large black plumes of smoke rose into the air. 

Fortunately, all four crew members managed to trigger their ejection systems immediately after the collision, deploying their parachutes to reach the ground safely.

Kim Sykes, the marketing director for Silver Wings of Idaho, which helped plan the anniversary event, confirmed the survival of the crew to the Associated Press, though she noted the crash occurred off base and she did not see it happen firsthand. 

Mid-air collision forces base lockdown

The celebratory event quickly turned into a crisis when the two aircraft, which appeared to be Navy Super Hornet fighters, collided during the Gunfighters Air Show near Mountain Home Air Force Base.

Notably, the two jets were performing an aerial demonstration during the celebration when they collided mid-air.

In response to the accident, the base, which is home to the US Air Force's 366th Fighter Wing, quickly announced a lockdown on social media to secure the area and allow emergency teams to work.

"Emergency Responders are on the scene, an investigation is underway and more details will be released as they become available," the base said.

Two-day event cancelled following crash

The Associated Press reported that there was good visibility but winds were gusting up to 29 mph at the time of the crash.

The popular two-day air show was designed to celebrate aviation history and show off modern military technology with flying demonstrations, parachute jumps, and a performance by the US Air Force Thunderbirds.

Due to the crash, the Mountain Home Police Department announced that the rest of the show was canceled and warned the public to stay away from the military base.

"Please DO NOT travel to or attempt to access Mountain Home Air Force Base as a spectator, as the event will no longer be taking place," police wrote on Facebook. "We understand many were looking forward to this event and appreciate your understanding and cooperation."