Watch | F-35 fighter jet crashes in Alaska, pilot ejects safely

The crash, which occurred during landing, caused "significant damage" to the F-35 Lightning II, the most expensive US defence programme and Lockheed Martin’s biggest revenue generator.

By: Express Web Desk

January 29, 2025 10:59 PM IST

2 min read

The crash was followed by a large explosion, with fire rising several meters up in the air. (X/@BNONews)

A US Air Force F-35 fighter jet crashed during a training exercise at Eielson Air Force Base in Alaska on Tuesday, with the pilot safely ejecting before impact.

A widely shared video on social media showed the aircraft plunging vertically, flipping mid-air before crashing and erupting into flames.

Colonel Paul Townsend, commander of the 354th Fighter Wing, told reporters the pilot experienced an “in-flight malfunction” before ejecting. The pilot was taken to Bassett Army Hospital for evaluation.

The crash, which occurred during landing, caused “significant damage” to the F-35 Lightning II, the most expensive US defence programme and Lockheed Martin’s biggest revenue generator.

The jet, known for its advanced stealth capabilities and long-range endurance, is a key asset in US military operations.

“I can assure you the United States Air Force will conduct a thorough investigation in hopes to minimise the chances of such occurrences from happening again,” Townsend said.

The cause of the crash remains under investigation.

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