A Texas Air National Guard pilot ejected from an F-16 fighter jet during what military officials described as a “mishap” Thursday in Michigan.
The pilot, assigned to the 149th Fighter Wing at Lackland Air Force Base in San Antonio, was conducting a routine F-16 training flight when the incident occurred about seven miles south of Grand Traverse, Michigan, a unit spokesperson told News Media.
Officials said the pilot safely ejected before the aircraft crashed and was listed in stable condition.
A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft flies in the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility Aug. 5, 2026. A Texas Air National Guard pilot flying a training mission ejected from a fighter jet just before it crashed in Michigan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Adriana Jordan-Alcaniz, File)
Authorities did not immediately release additional details about the crash or the pilot.
“I’m aware of the plane crash near Traverse City,” U.S. Sen. Gary Peters, D-Mich., wrote on social media. “I am closely monitoring the situation as we work to get more information on the incident. I am praying that the pilot and folks on the ground are safe.”
ALSO READ: NFL Owner Fires Macklemore Over Antisemitic Comments
An F-16 jet fighter over San Diego (Getty Images, File)
Video shared on X appeared to show a thick column of black smoke billowing into the sky from what was believed to be the crash area.
The Grand Traverse Emergency Management Agency directed people within a one-mile radius of the site to leave the area.
“Evacuate away from the intersection of Co Rd 633 and Jefferson Pl. Follow instructions from emergency personnel,” the agency said.