Navy Jets Collide at Idaho Air Show; Crew Members Eject Safely
Two U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler jets collided during an air show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. All four crew members ejected safely, and the incident is under investigation.
Two U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler jets from Electronic Attack Squadron 129 collided midair during the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on May 17, 2026. All four crew members ejected safely and are in stable condition.
The collision occurred around 12:10 p.m. MDT, approximately two miles northwest of the base. The aircraft were performing an aerial demonstration when the incident happened. Cmdr. Amelia Umayam, spokesperson for Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet, confirmed that all four crew members successfully ejected and are being evaluated by medical personnel.
Witnesses reported seeing the two jets make contact before spiraling downward, with four parachutes deploying prior to the aircraft crashing and exploding upon impact. No injuries were reported among spectators or ground personnel.
Following the crash, Mountain Home Air Force Base was placed on lockdown, and the remainder of the air show was canceled. An investigation into the cause of the collision is underway.