US Air Force Thunderbird F-16 Jet Crashes During Training Exercise in California Desert: Pilot Safely Ejects

A US Air Force Thunderbird F-16C Fighting Falcon crashed during a training mission in Southern California's desert region. Fortunately, the pilot managed to eject safely before impact, sustaining only non-life-threatening injuries, according to the US Air Force statement.

The Air Force has not released detailed information regarding the crash circumstances, noting that an investigation is underway. Additional information will be provided by the 57th Wing Public Affairs Office as it becomes available.

Social media footage captured the dramatic moment when the pilot ejected from the aircraft as it slowly descended toward the ground. Upon impact, the fighter jet erupted into flames, creating a substantial fireball visible in the video.

The incident occurred at approximately 10:45 am on Wednesday during a routine training exercise "over controlled airspace in California," as reported by military officials.

According to the Los Angeles Times, the aircraft belonged to the Air Force's elite demonstration squadron based at Nellis Air Force Base. The San Bernardino County Fire Department confirmed they responded to the "aircraft emergency" near Trona, an unincorporated community situated in the Mojave Desert approximately 180 miles (290 kilometers) north of Los Angeles.

Medical personnel transported the pilot to a hospital for treatment of injuries sustained during the ejection process, though these injuries were classified as non-life-threatening by emergency responders.

The Thunderbirds, established in 1953, conduct their seasonal training operations from Nellis Air Force Base near Las Vegas. The elite squadron is renowned for their precision aerial demonstrations, often flying in tight formations with aircraft positioned mere inches apart during public performances.