In a dramatic incident that unfolded on Tuesday, March 25, 2025, two Alpha Jet planes from the prestigious Patrouille de France collided mid-air during a training flight near Saint-Dizier in Haute-Marne. The collision, which occurred around 3:35 PM in the sector of Villiers-en-Lieu, involved seven aircraft and stunned witnesses as one of the jets plummeted onto a concrete silo while the other crashed into a nearby wooded, marshy area.
The pilots, both experienced aviators, along with a passenger, were able to eject from the planes in time and escaped with minor injuries. They were subsequently found around 4:20 PM and transported to the hospital in Saint-Dizier, where officials reported they were in stable condition. Minister of the Armies Sébastien Lecornu reassured the public that despite the serious nature of the incident, the three individuals were “healthy and safe.”
The aftermath of the collision left a significant scene of chaos with thick black smoke rising from the site near the Calin concrete company, where one of the jets crashed. Eyewitness accounts described the startling moment when debris rained down. Emma, a bystander, conveyed her shock, stating, “We saw black smoke, we didn't expect it at all. We were really shocked.” Another witness, Caroline, described an explosion rivaling that of a bomb going off, recalling that “pieces of wing” were scattered nearby.
The Patrouille Acrobatique de France, renowned for its aerial displays, was conducting training at the air base 113 throughout the week, with specific schedules outlined for both morning and afternoon sessions. The mayor of Saint-Dizier, Quentin Brière, confirmed that the two aircraft had entered into a “figure” during their exercise before the crash occurred.
In light of the incident, a comprehensive investigation has been initiated. The prosecutor's office in Chaumont relinquished the case to the Metz prosecutor's office, which holds military jurisdiction. “There is an investigation that is going to begin, which is standard procedure in terms of crashes involving military aircraft,” emphasized Metz prosecutor Yves Badorc.
Additionally, the Armée de l'Air et de l'Espace has launched three internal investigations into the circumstances surrounding the incident. “The Patrouille de France is a remarkable squadron, and given the professionalism of the pilots, there is certainly a cause behind this accident, and the investigative services will provide that information,” stated Régine Pam, the Haute-Marne prefect.
While incidents involving the elite aerobatic team are rare, there have been notable past occurrences. In 2002, a pilot tragically lost his life during an exercise when his parachute failed to deploy, and in 2024, two pilots perished in a serious collision in Lorraine. A minor incident had also occurred in 2019 when a Patrouille jet veered off the runway during training. The gravity of these past accidents highlights the inherent risks associated with aerial performances.
An immediate response included the deployment of numerous firefighters, who worked on managing the fire at the concrete plant, ensuring that no collateral damage was inflicted on the surrounding community. As the situation stabilized, traffic disruptions ensued, particularly on the RN 4 national road, which was closed between Vitry-le-François and Saint-Dizier, impacting motorists traveling toward Nancy.
A detour has been established leading traffic away from the crash zone, with authorities advising travelers to use the RD 995 departmental road from Vitry-le-François toward Sermaize-les-Bains, subsequently rejoining the RN4 near Villiers-en-Lieu. This logistical adjustment has been necessary to maintain public safety and facilitate ongoing recovery operations.
The Patrouille de France, founded in 1953 and distinguished for its prestigious public displays, emphasizes a commitment to excellence, drawing from a pool of highly skilled pilots who undergo rigorous training. The elite team performs at significant national events, such as the annual Bastille Day celebrations, captivating audiences with their intricate formations. This incident, while alarming, has not tarnished the reputation of the squadron; reactions to the event stress the importance of thorough investigations to understand the cause and improve safety protocols.
As investigations continue, the aviators and passenger involved are recuperating well, with assurances from officials that health assessments will be completed to ensure their overall well-being. As people reflect on the shocking nature of the occurrence, many hope for further clarity from the investigations to ensure the safety of future aerial displays.
