Two French jets collided with each other in mid-air while performing a stunt above an air base. The crash destroyed both aircraft, forcing the plane's occupants to eject and parachute to safety.
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According to multiple sources, including Fox News, a pair of military jets crashed during a stunt rehearsal on Tuesday afternoon at around 3:40 PM local time. They were above an airbase in Saint-Dizier at the time. Three pilots and a passenger were on board the two aircraft. Fortunately, they all managed to eject and deploy their parachutes before their planes hit the ground.
The seven aircraft performing in the display were part of the Patrouille de France, which is reportedly a 'precision aerobatics demonstration unit' of the French Air Force. The unit has been in commission since 1953. News 18 shared shocking footage of the incident and the aftermath.
The seven jets appear to be exiting a loop in formation, each emitting a colored trail. However, two of the planes seem to slow down during the descent. They collide, sending both vehicles hurtling towards the ground. Eyewitness video shows the plane's occupants floating in the air on parachutes, but not before one jet explodes in a ball of flames. Even with the footage, it remains unclear why the aircraft hit each other or who was at fault.
Authorities Report No Fatalities After The Jet Crash
French police have reportedly stated there are no casualties at the crash zones. According to news outlet Puissance Television, one plane hit silos owned by the Calin company, which caused the explosion. The other wrecked jet landed in a nearby canal.
The outlet also explains that emergency services are looking after the plane's occupants, and they are in stable condition. Quentin Brière, the mayor of Saint-Dizier, urged residents "not to give in to panic." He also praised the professionalism of the pilots, as they managed to direct the wrecks away "without risk to the population."
Fox News explains that the Alpha Jets used in the exercise are 'light attack and advanced trainer' aircraft. They are typically used for stunts and to train pilots.
