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Fighter Pilot Ejects From F-35 Jet Moments Before It Bursts Into Flames, Watch

F-35 Pilot

A fighter pilot flying an F-35 jet in Fairbanks, Alaska, employed quick-thinking on January 28 that likely saved his life. Moments before the F-35 Lightning II aircraft crashed at Eielson Air Force Base, the pilot made a brave decision. He parachuted from the aircraft, safely landing before the fiery crash. According to a release from Eielson Air Force Base, crews transported the pilot to Bassett Army Hospital for further evaluation.

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Officials Commended the F-35 Pilot For His Bravery

Colonel Paul Townsend, commander of the 354th Fighter Wing, shared info in a news release. He wrote, “Our people are our most important resource, and we are committed in ensuring their safety and security. I can assure you the United States Air Force will conduct a thorough investigation into this incident to minimize the chances of such occurrences from happening again.”

Officials asked residents not to stop in the area. “Local traffic should not stop on the Richardson Highway adjacent to Eielson AFB as this poses a safety risk and impedes recovery efforts. Additionally, Federal Law prohibits photography along this stretch of highway.”

NBC News shared a video of the F-35 pilot parachuting to the ground and the subsequent firey crash. Many people questioned what happened.

Like that person, “Strange to see the pilot so much lower than the plane they ejected from in the same video shot. Must have been pointed skyward when they ejected and the plane kept going for a bit, probably until stall?”

Someone suggested, “Maybe there should be like some sort of REMOTE Piloting that will be available when a Pilot plans to eject in the jet. Maybe trying to save the Jet at the last minute.”

And this person didn’t think anyone could film in the area. “Besides what happened, are they even supposed to (privately) film on a military base?”

No word on the F-35 pilot’s condition, but he is expected to survive.

This story’s featured image can be found here.

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