US Fighter Jet Crashes in California, Bursts Into Flames — How the Pilot Survived - Punjabi News

Published on: 04 Dec 2025 at 10:55 AM

US Fighter Jet Crashes in California, Bursts Into Flames — How the Pilot Survived

Published by: Gill Bikram

US Fighter Jet Crashes in California, Bursts Into Flames — How the Pilot Survived

A major accident took place in California when a United States Air Force F-16 fighter jet crashed and erupted into flames during a training mission. The pilot managed to eject from the aircraft moments before it struck the ground, saving his life.

According to reports, the F-16C Fighting Falcon—part of the elite USAF demonstration team “Thunderbirds”—went down in a desert area approximately 3 km from the Trona Airfield in Southern California. As soon as the jet crashed, it exploded into a massive fireball, sending thick black smoke into the sky. Videos circulating on social media show the pilot ejecting and descending safely with a parachute.

Pilot Safe With Minor Injuries

The pilot sustained minor injuries and was transported to Ridgecrest Hospital for medical care. He reportedly told investigators that he suddenly lost control of the aircraft moments before the crash. The cause of the malfunction remains unknown, and a detailed investigation is underway.

The aircraft was completely destroyed in the fire.

Past F-16 Crash Incidents

F-16 jets—used by several countries—have been involved in multiple crash incidents over the years:

2025: An F-16 crashed in Poland, killing the pilot.
2024: Two separate F-16 crashes were reported in Singapore and Greece; in both cases, the pilots ejected safely.
2015: In Spain, an F-16 crash led to the deaths of both pilots and several personnel on the ground after debris fell over the runway area.

These incidents continue to raise questions about the aircraft’s aging fleet and mechanical challenges.