Fighter jet crews parachute safely after collision at US air show

May 18, 2026

Two US Navy EA-18G Growler fighter jets collided during an aerial demonstration at the Gunfighter Skies air show near Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on Sunday. All four crew members successfully ejected from their aircraft and are currently in stable condition while receiving medical evaluation, though the extent of any injuries remains unclear. The collision sparked a fire and prompted officials to lock down the base temporarily and cancel the remainder of the show's second day.

Who is affected

Four Navy crew members who ejected from the colliding aircraft
Attendees at the Gunfighter Skies air show
US Navy electronic attack squadron from Washington state (aircraft owner)
Mountain Home Air Force Base personnel
Silver Wings of Idaho (air show co-organizer)

What action is being taken

Crew members are receiving medical checks
An investigation into the collision is underway
Medical personnel are examining the ejected crew members

Why it matters

This incident is significant because it involves the loss of two expensive military aircraft worth $134 million combined during a public demonstration, raising questions about air show safety protocols. The successful ejection of all four crew members demonstrates the effectiveness of safety equipment, but the collision at a public event highlights potential risks associated with military aerial demonstrations. The incident also marks the second fatal or serious accident at this particular air show, following a glider pilot's death in 2018.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: BBC