The F-35A crashed at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The pilot successfully ejected.
On Jan. 28, 2025, a U.S. Air Force F-35A crashed within the fence line of Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. The pilot ejected safely and was transported to a local hospital for further evaluation.
Here’s a public statement released by the base:
An F-35 Lightning II aircraft crash occurred at 12:49 p.m. today within the fence line of Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska.
The pilot is safe and has been transported to Bassett Army Hospital for further evaluation. Emergency crews are responding.
“Our people are our most important resource, and we are committed in ensuring their safety and security,” said Colonel Paul Townsend, commander of the 354th Fighter Wing. “I can assure you the United States Air Force will conduct a thorough investigation into this incident to minimize the chances of such occurrences from happening again.”
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Local traffic should not stop on the Richardson Highway adjacent to Eielson AFB as this poses a safety risk and impedes recovery efforts. Additionally, Federal Law prohibits photography along this stretch of highway.
While the incident is being investigated, a dramatic video, that is doing the rounds on social networks, captured the F-35A crashing on the ground. The footage is filmed from the ramp near a KC-135R Stratotanker, and shows the F-35 spinning towards the ground with its landing gear extended before erupting into a massive fireball upon impact. A parachute is visible nearby, showing that the pilot successfully ejected.
BRNCO 01 flt appears to be the callsign of the F-35 that crashed today. WIDE27 (KC-135) was instructed to hold coming in behind them because of a IFE (In Flight Emergency)
Audio via @liveatc pic.twitter.com/mTMbMOwOJI
— Thenewarea51 (@thenewarea51) January 29, 2025
