On March 25, 2025, a mid-air collision involving two Alpha Jet aircraft from the Patrouille de France shook the skies near Saint-Dizier in eastern France. The incident took place during a training rehearsal approximately at 15:35 local time, just 4 kilometers from Air Base 113, a location known for hosting the elite aerobatic team. Eyewitnesses captured alarming footage on social media showing the two jets becoming entangled in mid-air, their fuselages breaking apart as they descended.
According to French Armed Forces Minister Sébastien Lecornu, who confirmed the incident via social media, emergency services were mobilized immediately to attend to the situation. "An accident involving two Alpha Jets of the Patrouille de France during rehearsals has just occurred," Lecornu stated. Fortunately, all three crew members, consisting of two pilots and one passenger, successfully ejected from the aircraft before disaster struck.
Both pilots and the passenger were later located on the ground, conscious and receiving appropriate medical care. Initial reports suggest that their injuries are minor. As the French Air and Space Force put it, "All three crew members, two pilots and a third in a rear seat, successfully ejected from the aircraft." This remarkable escape greatly mitigated what could have been a tragic loss.
However, the incident did not end without chaos. One of the aircraft crashed into a silo at a concrete factory nearby, igniting a fire that sent thick smoke billowing into the air. Video clips circulating online further illustrated the urgency of the moment, showing firefighters battling the blaze while navigating the wreckage on the ground. Thankfully, no casualties were reported among civilians in the vicinity, and authorities have since secured the area.
The collision happened during a formation flight as the team prepared for an upcoming public demonstration, continuing a long-standing tradition of showcasing their aerial prowess. As noted by various news outlets, the engagement of emergency services and the investigation into the incident are already underway. No civilian casualties on the ground have been reported, which is a relief given the alarming circumstances.
Founded in 1931, the Patrouille de France is one of the world's most distinguished aerobatic teams, often seen gracing the skies during national celebrations such as Bastille Day. The aircraft at the center of this accident, the Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jet, has been the team's chosen plane since 1981. Originally developed as a training aircraft, the Alpha Jet is noted for its maneuverability and performance, making it ideal for the aerobatic routines the team executes.
Reflecting on the accident's historical context, the Patrouille de France has had its share of misfortune throughout its 94-year existence, with prior incidents resulting in casualties. This recent event serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks associated with aerial performances, especially during training exercises where precision maneuvers are crucial.
Amidst the uncertainty surrounding the cause of the incident, Lecornu affirmed that a thorough investigation would be conducted to uncover the circumstances leading to the collision. Many spectators and aficionados of aviation hope this investigation will help prevent future occurrences and enhance safety protocols for the team.
As the community reflects on this incident, individuals are wishing the crew members a swift recovery, and analysts are keeping a keen eye on the implications this may have for future Patrouille de France performances.
In closing, while the aerial acrobatics of the Patrouille de France fill many with awe and pride, incidents like this illustrate both the dangerous nature of aviation and the skill required to perform such daring feats. The world watches closely as the team recovers from this incident and continues its storied legacy in the skies.
