A US Air Force Thunderbirds F-16C Fighting Falcon crashed on December 3, 2025, during a training mission over California, with the pilot ejecting safely, according to Nellis Air Force Base. The pilot is now in a stable condition.
Nellis AFB said the incident occurred at approximately 10:45. local time during a routine training mission over controlled airspace. In a statement, the base confirmed that the pilot “safely ejected” and is receiving follow-on care.
Crash occurred near Trona, close to China Lake
Local authorities said the aircraft went down in the desert area near the town of Trona, close to the San Bernardino–Inyo County line. San Bernardino County Fire officials described the pilot’s injuries as non-life-threatening and reported that no one on the ground was hurt. A small post-crash fire was contained at the site, with no threat to surrounding vegetation or nearby communities.
The crash site is near Trona Airport and roughly 27 miles from Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake, a US Navy testing range in the Mojave Desert.
Hazmat response and investigation underway
Edwards Air Force Base dispatched an environmental response team to the scene to manage potential hazardous materials, including hydrazine used in the F-16’s emergency power unit. The USAF has opened a formal investigation into the cause of the crash.
The aircraft belonged to the USAF Thunderbirds, the service’s air demonstration squadron based at Nellis Air Force Base in Nevada. The team flies precision aerobatic displays in the F-16C/D Fighting Falcon and conducts extensive year-round training to prepare for its annual demonstration season. Their aircraft are only lightly modified for airshow duty, with the 20 mm cannon replaced by a smoke system and a distinctive red, white, and blue livery applied. Despite these modifications, the jets can be returned to combat configuration if required.
Further information will be released by the 57th Wing Public Affairs Office as the investigation progresses.
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