US F-16 crashes in California, pilot ejects seconds before explosion| Video

New Delhi: One of the iconic F-16C Fighting Falcon jets belonging to the US Air Force’s elite Thunderbirds demonstration squadron crashed in a remote area south of Death Valley, Southern California on Wednesday morning. Despite the fatal crash of the advanced aircraft, its pilot successfully ejected and is recovering with non-life-threatening injuries.

The dramatic event unfolded around 10:45 AM local time, as the F-16C plunged towards the desert floor. Eyewitness footage, which quickly circulated online, captured the critical moments of the crash. The jet hurtled downwards, followed by the deployment of the pilot's parachute, and finally, a violent explosion upon impact that sent a thick plume of black smoke billowing into the sky.

The pilot, whose name has not yet been released, was swiftly attended to and is receiving medical care at a local hospital for injuries described as non-life-threatening, as confirmed by the San Bernardino County Fire Department.

Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada issued a statement confirming the crash occurred during a routine training mission "over controlled airspace in California." The aircraft involved, an F-16C Fighting Falcon, is a variant of one of the most capable and versatile multirole fighters in the world.

How advanced F-16 technology  saved pilot

While the loss of the aircraft is significant, the pilot's safe ejection highlights the crucial role of advanced safety systems integrated into modern fighter jets. The F-16, particularly its latest Block 70/72 iteration, represents the pinnacle of 4th-generation fighter technology.

A key life-saving feature is the Automatic Ground Collision Avoidance System (Auto GCAS), developed by Lockheed Martin. This purpose-built system is designed to prevent what's known as Controlled Flight Into Terrain (CFIT), a leading cause of aircraft losses and, tragically, responsible for an astounding 75 percent of all F-16 pilot fatalities. Since its introduction into the US Air Force in late 2014, Auto GCAS has already been credited with saving multiple pilots' lives and aircraft by autonomously taking control to avoid imminent ground impact.

The F-16 Block 70/72 boasts an industry, leading extended structural life of 12,000 hours, exceeding previous models by more than 50 per cent, ensuring a reliable service life of at least 40 years. Its design also incorporates conformal fuel tanks for increased range without sacrificing aerodynamic performance, coupled with an improved engine.

Moreover for the pilot's survival, the aircraft is equipped with the US18E Ejection Seat from Martin-Baker. This state-of-the-art system introduces 5th Generation escape performance to the F-16, featuring a sophisticated electronic sequencer, a Neck Protection Device & Head Support Panel, and a larger diameter IGQ6000 parachute, all designed for maximum pilot safety during an emergency. The F16 has more than 500 suppliers globally and contribute to its formidable capabilities and unparalleled weapon integration experience.