A US Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed on Thursday in southern California, with the pilot ejecting safely just seconds before the aircraft hit the ground. The incident occurred around 12:30 AM IST near the city of Trona, roughly three kilometres from the Trona Airport. According to the airport manager, military aircraft frequently operate in this region.
Videos circulating on social media show the jet descending rapidly as the pilot ejects using a parachute. Moments later, the aircraft crashed, triggering a massive explosion and sending thick black smoke into the sky.
According to 2021 US Air Force data, an F-16 Fighting Falcon costs approximately 18.8 million dollars (around ₹1.70 thousand crore). The crashed aircraft belonged to the Thunderbirds Squadron, an elite demonstration team based at Nellis Air Force Base near Las Vegas, known worldwide for its air shows and high-precision aerial manoeuvres.
Thunderbirds officials confirmed that the aircraft went down during a training mission, and the pilot—who suffered minor injuries—was taken to a hospital for treatment.
Local fire authorities reported that the pilot was the only person present at the scene and that the crash posed no risk to surrounding areas. The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation.