Wed Jan 29 01:10:00 UTC 2025: ## F-35 Fighter Jet Crashes at Eielson Air Force Base; Pilot Safe
**SALCHA, Alaska** – An F-35 fighter jet crashed on the flightline at Eielson Air Force Base Tuesday afternoon, but the pilot ejected safely and is in stable condition. The incident occurred around 12:49 p.m. during a training exercise, according to Col. Paul Townsend, 354th Fighter Wing Commander.
Col. Townsend stated that the pilot experienced an “in-flight malfunction” while attempting a landing and followed standard ejection procedures. Emergency responders quickly arrived to extinguish the resulting fire, and the area surrounding the crash site has been secured. The pilot was transported to a nearby medical facility for evaluation.
The F-35 belonged to either the 355th or 356th Fighter Squadron, both stationed at Eielson AFB. Authorities are urging motorists on the adjacent Richardson Highway to avoid stopping and refrain from taking photos or videos of the crash site. An investigation into the cause of the malfunction is underway.
First Piper 