DRAMATIC footage has captured the moment a F-35 fighter plane spiraled out of control and exploded into a fireball. Video showed the $81 million aircraft rotating as it hurtled toward the ground in Alaska. The F-35 Lightning II jet, which can reach speeds of 1,200 mph, crashed at the Eielson Air Force Base during a training mission on Tuesday.
![[F-35 fighter jet spiraling out of control.]](https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/5ae9c9ee-bf32-4279-b0aa-36d8d61143b1.jpg?strip=all&w=487)
The pilot ejected after suffering an in-flight malfunction, officials said. Footage shared on social media showed the plane heading toward the ground. Thrusts from plane engines could also be heard in the clip. The jet had lost control and was rotating and spinning rapidly, careening toward the runway.
![[A jet engine exploding on a runway.]](https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/jet-smash-shocking-moment-81m-967525173.png?strip=all&w=523)
As the plane smashed onto a runway, it burst into flames, producing a huge fireball. The explosion could be seen behind one of the engines of another fighter jet. Orange flames could be seen within the mushroom-shaped plumes of smoke. Meanwhile, the pilot could be seen parachuting away from the plane.
![[Fighter jet flying near a large cargo plane.]](https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/image_a83faa.png?strip=all&w=529)
Paul Townsend, the commander of the 354th Fighter Wing at the US Air Force, said the pilot is safe. He was rushed to a local hospital for checks. “Our people are our most important resource, and we are committed in ensuring their safety and security,” he told reporters.
![[F-35 fighter jet crash with smoke and a parachute.]](https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/jet-smash-shocking-moment-81m-967523514.png?strip=all&w=521)
US Air Force chiefs have launched an investigation. The F-35, produced by Lockheed Martin, is a leading stealth fighter jet. THE F-35 fighter plane is an integral part of the United States' security strategy. The stealth fighters are admired across the world because of their ability to carry different types of weapons and advanced electronic warfare capabilities.
![[U.S. Air Force F-35 Joint Strike Fighter in flight.]](https://www.the-sun.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/6/2025/01/u-s-air-force-f-948598629.jpg?strip=all&w=960)
