F‑16 Jet crashes near US base with hazardous chemical concerns
On the morning of April 30th, near a military base in New Mexico, an F-16 fighter jet experienced a crash. The exact cause of the incident is still unknown, with investigations underway by the US Air Force experts. Fortunately, the pilot managed to eject safely from the aircraft. However, dangerous chemicals aboard have raised concerns about potential environmental contamination.
12:17 PM EDT, May 1, 2024
The crash occurred on Tuesday, April 30, around 6 AM Eastern Time, close to the United States Air Force's Holloman Base, approximately 6 miles west of Alamogordo. The incident occurred near the White Sands National Park in New Mexico.
A press release from the Holloman Air Force Base confirmed the incident and provided details about the pilot's condition following the crash.
An F-16 fighter jet crashed west of Holloman Air Force Base in New Mexico on Tuesday and the pilot safely ejected. Fighting Falcon went down near White Sands National Park shortly before noon. The pilot was the only person aboard and was taken by ambulance to a hospital for medical care, authorities say.
Pilot Ejects Safely from Crashing F-16
The pilot received prompt medical attention and was released from the hospital with minor injuries. Meanwhile, the aircraft was found to contain dangerous chemicals, and efforts to dispose of these substances and clear the wreckage are still in progress.
All non-emergency personnel were being told to avoid the crash site to prevent possible exposure to hazardous chemicals aboard the downed plane - Holloman base command recommended in its brief statement.
Videos capturing the crash have been shared on social media, depicting the aircraft's sudden decline mid-flight.
The aircraft involved was a single-engine Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter, part of the US Air Force's 49th Wing based at the Holloman military base. Several NATO countries prominently use this model.
