All four naval aviators walked away safe Sunday after two U.S. Navy EA-18G Growlers collided during a demonstration at the Gunfighter Skies Air Show on May 17, 2026, at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho. The crash happened at approximately 12:10 p.m. MDT. The incident forced organizers to shut down flying for the rest of the day.
The two aircraft belonged to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 “Vikings” from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, Washington. They were performing for spectators at the first Gunfighter Skies show in eight years when the trailing Growler closed rapidly on its lead aircraft and struck from above and behind, according to video evidence. Within seconds of impact, all four crew members—two pilots and two electronic warfare officers—ejected successfully. One aviator needed treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. The other three reported no injuries.
“On May 17, 2026, two U.S. Navy EA-18G assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 129 from Whidbey Island, Washington collided in mid-air while performing an aerial demonstration involving four air crew for the Mountain Home Air Force Base Gunfighter Skies Air Show,” said Commander Amelia Umayam, spokesperson for Naval Air Forces, U.S. Pacific Fleet. “All four of the air crew successfully ejected and they are being evaluated by medical personnel.”
Emergency Response & Show Cancellation
First responders from Mountain Home AFB and surrounding agencies reached the crash site immediately. Col. David R. Gunter, commander of the 366th Fighter Wing, praised their work: “The extraordinary professionalism of our emergency response teams, including the city and county, allowed for quick response to the aircrew as well as securing the scene to ensure the safety of our guests, performers and the community.”
Air show officials cancelled all remaining flying activities at approximately 1:20 p.m. MDT—roughly 70 minutes after the collision. The Thunderbirds, scheduled to perform Sunday, did not perform. Saturday’s full schedule proceeded without incident and featured various military aircraft and demonstration teams.
VAQ-129 & The Growler Demo Team
VAQ-129, the Fleet Replacement Squadron for the EA-18G Growler, established its official Demo Team in 2020. The Vikings train Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force aviators to fly the Navy’s primary electronic attack aircraft. Navy pilot Kevin Lynch described the Growler’s role during pre-show media: “We are the only electronic attack aircraft in the entire DOD.” He detailed the demo routine to include low-altitude passes at 500–1,000 feet, the Cobra maneuver, and the tack pitch—aggressive maneuvers designed to showcase the aircraft’s handling and climb performance.
This Gunfighter Skies appearance was VAQ-129’s first demo of 2026. The team had several scheduled performances lined up for the season before the collision.
What’s Next
A section of State Highway 167 near the crash site will remain closed for several days while the Navy investigates. The 366th Fighter Wing and Naval Air Forces are conducting the formal mishap investigation. No additional demo team cancellations have been announced. The Thunderbirds and other USAF demonstration teams continue their 2026 schedules. The next major military air show featuring the Thunderbirds is scheduled for June 8–9 at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona.
Show organizers and Silver Wings of Idaho, the volunteer board supporting Gunfighter Skies, called it an “emotional and difficult day.” They expressed gratitude for the safe outcome and praised the dedication of military aviators who accept risk in service of public outreach and air superiority.
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