Two US Growler jets collide during Idaho air show, pilots eject safely | WATCH

Two EA-18G Growler jets collided mid-air and crashed during the Gunfighter Skies air show near Mountain Home Air Force Base on Sunday, prompting an emergency response and temporary lockdown at the base.

The crash reportedly took place around two miles from the air force base in Idaho. Officials said emergency crews quickly rushed to the site after the collision, while the base was temporarily restricted as authorities responded to the situation.

Several videos circulating online showed the two military aircraft colliding in the air before plunging towards the ground. Moments later, four parachutes could be seen opening in the sky as the crew members ejected safely from the jets. Thick smoke was later seen rising from the crash site.

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A spokesperson for Mountain Home Air Force Base confirmed the incident to Reuters.

"Emergency responders are on the scene and investigation is underway and more details will be released as they become available," the spokesperson was quoted as saying by Hindustan Times.

All four pilots safe after ejection

According to the Idaho Statesman, all four US Navy pilots aboard the aircraft were "found safe" after successfully ejecting from the jets.

An announcer at the air show reportedly informed attendees that the aircraft had “four good parachutes” and said the crew members had landed around one mile south of the crash location.

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As emergency teams worked to control the fire and clear the area, people attending the event were reportedly instructed to remain inside the air base for some time.

Air show returned after eight years

The Gunfighter Skies air show features aerial demonstrations, parachute jumps and displays of military aviation capabilities. The event had returned this year after an eight-year gap.

The 2018 edition of the show had also witnessed a fatal accident involving a hang glider pilot, according to local reports.

Mountain Home Air Force Base is home to the US Air Force’s 366th Fighter Wing, also known as the “Gunfighters”. The base houses several fighter squadrons, including the 389th Fighter Squadron Thunderbolts, the 391st Fighter Squadron Tigers and the Republic of Singapore 428th Fighter Squadron Buccaneers.