Holloman AFB: Fighter jet crashes at White Sands National Park
EL PASO, Texas (KTSM) — A U.S. Air Force F-16 Fighting Falcon assigned to the 49th Wing crashed west of Holloman Air Force base Tuesday morning, April 30 at White Sands National Park, Holloman Air Force Base said in a news release.
The sole pilot on board successfully ejected and was transported by ambulance for medical care.
Col. Justin Spears. commander of the 49th Wing, told KTSM that the pilot is in stable condition and has been released.
The crash happened at about 11:50 a.m. Tuesday about 5 miles west of the base, Holloman officials said.
White Sands National Park remains open to visitors. However, the area past mile marker 3 is closed. All park visitors are advised to avoid the area.
Spears also said they are working with local authorities to ensure the safety of the public and the integrity of the crash site.
He cited regional partners White Sands National Park, New Mexico State Police, the Otero County Sheriff’s Office and the the U.S. Army Flight Operations Detachment for helping with the response.
An investigation conducted by a board of “qualified officers” is underway to determine the cause.
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