A pilot safely ejected from an F-35C fighter jet before it crashed in Central California on July 30, according to the U.S. Navy.
“We can confirm the pilot successfully ejected and is safe,” the Naval Air Station at Lemoore posted on Facebook.
Navy Pilot Safe After Fighter Jet Crashes in Central California
It’s the second F-35 to go down this year.
Fire engines near the scene after an F-35C fighter jet crashed in Fresno County, Calif., on July 30, 2025. Fresno County Sheriff's Office
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Jill McLaughlin is an award-winning journalist covering politics, environment, and statewide issues. She has been a reporter and editor for newspapers in Oregon, Nevada, and New Mexico. Jill was born in Yosemite National Park and enjoys the majestic outdoors, traveling, golfing, and hiking.
