BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK\/KBFX) \u2014 An Air Force Thunderbirds pilot was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after a a F-16C Fighting Falcon crashed in a dry lake bed near Trona.<\/p>\n
The San Bernardino County Fire Department said crews were assisting China Lake emergency resources with fire suppression stemming from a downed aircraft in the dry lake bed near Trona.<\/p>\n
Trona is located east of Ridgecrest in San Bernardino County.<\/p>\n
Air Force Thunderbirds said on December 3, 2025, at around 10:45 a.m., a Thunderbird pilot ejected safely from a F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft during a training mission over controlled airspace in California.<\/p>\n
Officials said the pilot, and solo-occupant, was treated and taken by on-scene personnel for non-life-threatening injuries.<\/p>\n
According to officials, the pilot was taken to a hospital. Thunderbirds said the pilot is in “stable” condition and receiving follow-on care.<\/p>\n
Fire officials said there was no threat to surrounding vegetation from the fire.<\/p>\n
The public is asked to avoid the immediate area.<\/p>\n
Officials said there is no threat to the community.<\/p>\n
The Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake is assuming command of the scene. The incident is under investigation.<\/p>\n
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