Mountain Home Air Show Canceled After Midair Collision
MOUNTAIN HOME, ID — The Gunfighter Skies Air Show was canceled Sunday after two Navy EA-18G aircraft collided midair and crashed at 12:10 p.m. local time.
All four aircrew members successfully ejected and were reported in stable condition, according to Cmdr. Amelia Umayam of the U.S. Pacific Fleet's Naval Air Forces. The crash occurred approximately 2 miles northwest of Mountain Home Air Force Base during the show's second day.
The aircraft involved were from Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129, based in Whidbey Island, Washington. Video from the scene showed the jets colliding and spiraling toward the ground, releasing black smoke as parachutes deployed nearby.
Col. David R. Gunter, wing commander of the 366th Fighter Wing, expressed gratitude for the safety of all involved, thanking first responders and the public for their patience during the incident.
A base lockdown was initiated at 12:30 p.m. to facilitate emergency operations. Guests were allowed to leave around 3 p.m. Mountain Home Police announced the air show's cancellation and advised against travel to the base.
The incident is currently under investigation by relevant authorities.