Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska – A U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II fighter jet crashed during a training exercise on Tuesday afternoon at Eielson Air Force Base, located approximately 25 miles south of Fairbanks. The pilot, who experienced an inflight malfunction, managed to eject safely and is currently in stable condition undergoing evaluation at a medical facility.
Col. Paul Townsend, commander of the 354th Fighter Wing, reported that the aircraft encountered issues during the landing phase, leading to significant damage upon impact. The specific cause of the malfunction remains under investigation. Col. Townsend emphasized the Air Force’s commitment to conducting a thorough investigation to prevent future incidents.
Eielson Air Force Base was selected in 2016 to host 54 F-35s, leading to a substantial expansion that included the construction of 36 new buildings and numerous housing units, accommodating approximately 3,500 new active-duty airmen and their families.
This incident adds to a series of accidents involving the F-35 platform in recent years. Notably, in May 2024, a developmental test F-35B crashed shortly after takeoff from Kirtland Air Force Base in New Mexico, where the pilot ejected and sustained injuries. Earlier, in September 2023, an F-35B crashed in South Carolina after the pilot ejected during a training flight; the aircraft’s wreckage was located after an extensive search.
The F-35, known for its advanced stealth capabilities and versatility, is a critical component of the U.S. military’s air operations. As the investigation into the latest crash continues, the Air Force aims to identify the root causes to enhance the safety and reliability of its flight operations.
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