(MENAFN) During a military exhibition at the Zaragoza Air Base in Spain, a US-manufactured F-18 fighter jet tragically crashed and exploded in a violent manner on Saturday. Fortunately, the pilot managed to eject from the aircraft before the crash and was promptly transported to a nearby hospital for medical attention.
The incident occurred during a practice flight that was scheduled ahead of a demonstration intended for military families at the Zaragoza Air Base. The airbase, which is currently operated by the Spanish Air Force, was previously utilized by the US Air Force.
Captured video footage of the incident reveals the fighter jet ascending at a steep angle before leveling out momentarily, only to abruptly nosedive back toward the ground. The crash resulted in a massive fireball engulfing the crash site, with burning jet fuel contributing to the formation of a large column of black smoke billowing into the sky.
The pilot, identified as a wing captain with extensive experience amounting to over 1,000 flight hours, suffered injuries to his legs, hips, and arms as a result of ejecting from the aircraft. Local newspaper Heraldo de Aragon reported on his condition, stating that his life is not considered to be in immediate danger. The Spanish Air Force released an official statement confirming the pilot's hospitalization and assuring the public that his injuries are being treated.
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