The sound for this piece is presented by the Air & Space Forces Association, commemorating and aiding our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Discover more at afa.org
On March 31, military officials announced that a U.S. Air Force F-35A Lightning II fighter jet, originating from Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., had impacted within the extensive training grounds enveloping the base. The pilot sustained slight wounds and is currently receiving medical attention after ejecting from the aircraft.
The 57th Wing, which supervises the primary USAF facility close to Las Vegas, confirmed the event transpired within the Nevada Test and Training Range—a vast complex of restricted airspace spanning approximately 5,000 square miles and encompassing over 2.9 million acres of terrain. The NTTR supplies replicated dangers, armament test zones, and dedicated airspace, allowing aircraft to refine strategies and backing significant drills such as Red Flag.
Per an Air Force representative, the plane was routinely stationed at Nellis. While Nellis frequently accommodates guest planes, it also possesses its own collection of F-35s.
In a communiqué to Air & Space Forces Magazine, the 57th Wing verified the mishap took place north of Las Vegas, roughly 25 miles northeast of Indian Springs, Nev., the site of Creech Air Force Base, a major remotely operated aircraft installation. The outfit stated in its communication that the incident unfolded “within the managed air zone and limited federal property belonging to the Nevada Test & Training Range.”
According to the wing’s announcement, the event seems restricted solely to federal land, with no additional documented harm to anyone other than the pilot.
“First responders are currently at the site, and there is no discernible effect on inhabited regions,” the 57th Wing added. “The pilot remains unharmed and is receiving care for slight injuries. The well-being of our staff and the surrounding locality continues to be our paramount concern.”
Military authorities did not promptly offer a reason for the mishap.
The sound for this piece is presented by the Air & Space Forces Association, commemorating and aiding our Airmen, Guardians, and their families. Discover more at afa.org