On March 25, 2025, two Alpha jets from the Patrouille de France collided midair during a stunt rehearsal in Saint-Dizier, northeastern France. The incident occurred around 3:40 p.m. local time, resulting in a crash that ignited a massive fireball, as captured in dramatic video footage.
- Two military jets collided during rehearsal
- Pilots ejected safely, no casualties reported
- Incident occurred near Saint-Dizier air base
- Alpha Jets used for training and aerobatics
- Patrouille de France known for precision flying
- Investigation ongoing into collision cause
Three pilots and one passenger successfully ejected and parachuted to safety, with no casualties reported at the crash site. The French Air and Space Force confirmed the pilots’ safety on social media.
The Patrouille de France, known for its precision aerobatics, was conducting a training exercise with seven aircraft when the collision occurred. The two jets spiraled to the ground, crashing in separate locations—one into a silo and the other into a marshy wooded area, according to local officials. The incident happened during a coordinated maneuver where the jets were emitting colored smoke.
Emergency services quickly arrived at the scene, as confirmed by Sébastien Lecornu, France’s Minister of the Armed Forces. He noted that the pilots sustained minor injuries and were receiving care. The Patrouille de France, established in 1953, is renowned for its skilled pilots and typically experiences few accidents.
The Alpha jet, a light attack and training aircraft developed in the 1970s, is used for both pilot training and aerobatic performances. The cause of the collision remains under investigation, as authorities work to determine what led to the incident.
This incident highlights the inherent risks associated with aerobatic flying, even among highly trained pilots. As investigations continue, the focus remains on the safety of the crew and the operational protocols of the Patrouille de France.
