An Air Force F-35 fighter jet crashed at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska on Tuesday afternoon. The incident, which occurred around 12:49 p.m., resulted in significant damage to the aircraft. However, the pilot ejected safely and was transported to Bassett Army Hospital for further evaluation.
The crash site was confirmed to be within the boundaries of Eielson Air Force Base. Video footage from the crash shows the jet falling from the sky before the pilot ejected and parachuted to safety.
Emergency crews quickly responded to the scene. Military officials have urged people to avoid stopping on the nearby Richardson Highway due to safety concerns and recovery efforts. They also reminded the public that federal law prohibits photography along that stretch of highway.
Colonel Paul Townsend, commander of the 354th Fighter Wing, emphasized the importance of personnel safety and pledged a thorough investigation to prevent similar incidents in the future.