F-35 Fighter Jet Worth $135 Million Crashes in New Mexico, Pilot Hospitalized

Photo : AP

A pilot sustained serious injuries after ejecting from an F-35 fighter jet that crashed near Albuquerque's International Sunport in New Mexico on Tuesday. The aircraft, a developmental model of the $135 million jet, was reportedly en route to Edwards Air Force Base in Southern California when the incident occurred, according to two US Department of Defense officials cited by CBS News. The crash happened around 1:50 PM local time after the jet had refueled at Kirtland Air Force Base, as reported by local outlet KOB4.

Lieutenant Jason Fejer, spokesperson for Albuquerque Fire Rescue, noted in a social media video that multiple agencies responded to the crash. Videos shared on social media depict the charred remnants of the plane burning in a field beside a road, with firefighters working to extinguish the flames. Mr. Fejer confirmed that they managed to bring the fire under control.

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Expressing gratitude for the swift response of the first responders, Albuquerque Mayor Tim Keller took to social media, stating, "Grateful for the rapid action of the first responders who arrived at the scene. Praying for the pilot."

The injured pilot was promptly transported to the University of New Mexico Hospital, as reported by CBS News. The identity of the pilot, whether they were affiliated with the Air Force or a civilian, has not been disclosed.

This incident marks the second military plane crash in New Mexico in two months. In April, an F-16 Fighting Falcon crashed in a remote area near Holloman Air Force Base in the southern part of the state. The pilot of that aircraft suffered minor injuries after ejecting.

Kirtland Air Force Base, situated on the southern outskirts of Albuquerque, is home to the 377th Air Base Wing.