Two US Navy Growler Jets Collide Mid-Air, Crash Near Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho

May 18, 2026

Two US Navy EA-18G Growler electronic warfare jets collided mid-air during the Gunfighter Skies air show near Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho, causing both aircraft to crash shortly after impact. The incident occurred during an aerial demonstration event witnessed by spectators.

Videos circulating from the scene show the jets making contact in the air before breaking apart and descending toward the ground.

Crew Eject Safely

All four crew members aboard the two aircraft successfully ejected using parachutes before the jets hit the ground. Emergency responders quickly reached the crash site, and all personnel were reported safe following the incident.

Authorities confirmed that no fatalities occurred, though the aircraft were destroyed in the crash.

Air Show Cancelled, Investigation Underway

Following the crash, the air show was cancelled and the base was placed under heightened security while emergency teams secured the area. Officials said an investigation has been launched to determine the cause of the mid-air collision.

Early assessments suggest factors such as formation flying conditions or possible pilot error may be examined, but no official cause has yet been confirmed.

About the EA-18G Growler

The EA-18G Growler is a US Navy electronic warfare aircraft used for radar jamming and suppression of enemy air defenses. It is based on the F/A-18 Super Hornet platform and is widely used in modern military operations.