Two Navy EA-18G Growlers Collide Mid-Air at Idaho’s Gunfighter Skies Air Show (Video)

MOUNTAIN HOME, Idaho — Two U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler electronic warfare jets collided in mid-air Sunday afternoon during a demonstration at the Gunfighter Skies Air Show at Mountain Home Air Force Base, but all four crew members ejected safely and are in stable condition.

The incident occurred around 12:10 p.m. local time, roughly two miles northwest of the base. Video from spectators showed the trailing jet striking the lead aircraft during a maneuver, followed by four parachutes deploying as the planes fell and crashed. No one on the ground was injured.

The jets belonged to Electronic Attack Squadron 129 (VAQ-129), the “Vikings,” based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. Each Growler carries a pilot and an electronic warfare officer.

Base officials and the Navy confirmed the four crew members were evaluated by medical personnel and remain in stable condition. The air show was immediately canceled for the day, and the base was briefly locked down while emergency crews responded.

The Gunfighter Skies Air Show is a popular free public event hosted annually by the 366th Fighter Wing at Mountain Home Air Force Base. This year’s show, held over the weekend, featured the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds as the headliners along with various military demonstrations, static displays, and family activities celebrating aviation history and modern military capabilities.

This marks the third notable incident at the Gunfighter Skies show in the past 23 years. A full investigation by the Navy and Air Force is underway to determine the cause of the collision.

Col. David R. Gunter, commander of the 366th Fighter Wing, expressed relief that safety protocols worked and all personnel are safe. Organizers from Silver Wings of Idaho, a key partner in the event, echoed that sentiment, stating the priority remains the well-being of the aircrew.