F-16 crashes during training exercise in Michigan

A US F-16 fighter jet crashed and caught fire during a training exercise in Michigan on Thursday, September 17. The crash sent a huge plume of black smoke into the sky.

The pilot safely ejected from the aircraft before it went down and was later taken to a local hospital. He was conscious and speaking with law enforcement officers, according to the Grand Traverse County Sheriff.

The crash occurred in a rural area of Grand Traverse County while the fighter jet was taking part in a training exercise from a National Guard base near Alpena.

Before the crash, the pilot of another aircraft flying alongside the F-16 alerted air traffic control to a possible problem. According to audio published by LiveATC.net, the pilot suspected that the aircraft may have struck a bird.

Shortly afterwards, the F-16 crashed into a field near a residential area. Witnesses reported hearing a loud explosion and seeing a large fireball followed by thick black smoke.

Communication with air traffic control also raised concerns about a possible engine problem. However, military officials said they had not confirmed a bird strike.

Michigan State Police said the F-16 was carrying only one pilot, who ejected safely before the crash.

Authorities temporarily evacuated residents within a one-mile radius of the crash site over concerns that hazardous chemicals could have been released from the wreckage.

Residents were allowed to return home later Thursday evening after the situation was brought under control.

The F-16 was among several aircraft that had travelled from a military base in Texas to Michigan for the training exercise.

The cause of the crash, including any possible mechanical failure, remains under investigation.

Source: Associated Press (AP)