Pilot Ejects Safely After Thunderbirds Jet Crash in California Desert

Thunderbirds Fighter Jet Incident

Trona, California: A fighter jet from the elite Thunderbirds demonstration team of the Air Force crashed in the Southern California desert, but fortunately, the pilot was able to eject safely, as confirmed by military officials.

The pilot is currently receiving treatment for injuries that are not considered life-threatening, according to the San Bernardino County Fire Department.

The incident occurred around 10:45 AM on Wednesday during a training exercise in controlled airspace in California, as stated by Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada.

Emergency responders were dispatched to an aircraft emergency near Trona, a small community located approximately 180 miles (290 kilometers) north of Los Angeles.

This crash follows a tragic incident in 2022 when a Navy F/A-18E Super Hornet went down in the same area, resulting in the pilot's death.

An investigation into Wednesday's crash is underway, with additional details expected to be released by the 57th Wing Public Affairs Office, according to the Air Force.

Similar to the Navy's Blue Angels, the Thunderbirds are known for their impressive aerial formations during air shows and train to fly in close proximity to one another. However, the Air Force's brief statement did not elaborate on the specifics surrounding the crash.

Both the Blue Angels and Thunderbirds have experienced numerous crashes throughout their storied histories.

Established in 1953, the Thunderbirds conduct seasonal training at Nellis Air Force Base, which is home to various aircraft, including the F-16 Falcon, F-22 Raptor, and A-10 Warthog.