A U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter takes off from the Spangdahlem Air Base in Spangdahlem, Germany, Wednesday, June 14, 2023, during the Air Defender 2023 exercise. (Boris Roessler/dpa via AP) ** FILE ** A U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter … more >

Air Force probing F-16 jet crash at U.S. base in Germany

by · The Washington Times

The Air Force is investigating Tuesday’s crash of an F-16 jet fighter at a U.S. air base in Germany that injured the ejected pilot.

The crash happened about 8:30 a.m., when the jet was returning to Spangdahlem Air Base in western Germany after what Air Force officials said was a “routine training flight” involving four F-16 Fighting Falcons.

“The remaining three aircraft diverted to Ramstein Air Base and landed safely. The pilot of the crashed aircraft ejected safely and received medical care,” the Air Force said in a statement.

The crashed F-16 was assigned to the 52nd Fighter Wing, based at Spangdahlem.

“Emergency response personnel responded to the scene, with local German fire departments and emergency medical services providing support,” the Air Force said. “The 52nd Fighter Wing appreciates the swift response and continued support of our German partners.”

The crash happened almost a week after a Texas Air National Guard F-16 went down during a training flight in northern Michigan. The pilot ejected before impact and was taken to an area hospital for medical treatment, officials said.

The jet was assigned to the 149th Fighter Wing at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. Officials said the crash in Michigan also remains under investigation.

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Mike Glenn

mglenn@washingtontimes.com

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