A video, seemingly filmed from the air traffic control tower at Barnes Air National Guard Base in Massachusetts and posted on X (formerly Twitter) by the account Weapon Outfitters on 16/8, appears to show the ejection incident involving an F-15D fighter jet from the 104th Fighter Wing that occurred last week.
The video shows the F-15D moving at the end of the runway. The canopy suddenly detaches, and the ejection seat activates, creating a large cloud of smoke. The seat is propelled a considerable distance before the parachute deploys, allowing the passenger to land safely on the grass beside the runway.
The US Air Force has not commented on the video.
The 104th Fighter Wing confirmed the incident occurred on 12/8 and said officials are investigating, but have not determined the cause. "More information will be released when the investigation is complete. Leadership suspended flying operations to ensure safety. That stand-down ended after 36 hours and flights have resumed," the unit said.
According to Air Force Amn/Nco/Snco, an account that posts information about the US Air Force, the ejection occurred during an incentive flight. The passenger in the back seat was reportedly a recruiter for the 104th Fighter Wing.
"Incentive flights" are a form of recognition offered by the US Air Force to military personnel for outstanding performance. The recipient sits in the back seat of a fighter jet or the cargo hold of a transport aircraft to experience flight.
Unintentional ejections from military aircraft are rare but have occurred in the US and other countries. These incidents often stem from the passenger’s unintentional actions during incentive flights or safety breaches during pre-flight procedures.
Ngoc Anh (Theo Aviationist, War Zone)
