During an airshow in the coastal city of Gijón, Spain, a F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet from the Spanish Air Force nearly collided with the sea in front of a large crowd of spectators.
The aircraft was performing a low-altitude maneuver toward the beach when it suddenly rolled sharply to the right, coming dangerously close to the waves before regaining control and climbing. The moment shocked the audience, many of whom were recording the flight with their phones.
+ Click here to watch the maneuver video
According to video analysis and an official statement from the Air Force, the pilot executed the evasive maneuver after spotting a flock of birds in the aircraft’s flight path. The quick reaction, considered exemplary, followed safety protocols to protect both the pilot and the spectators.
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The maneuver also showcased the F/A-18’s ability to maintain control at extreme angles of attack, especially at low speeds—a factor that likely prevented a tragedy.
The situation reignites concerns over risks at airshows, such as bird strikes, which have caused previous incidents in Spain, including the shattering of an EF2000 canopy.
The Air Force emphasized that safety remains a top priority and praised the pilot’s professionalism in handling the unexpected.
Source and images: @EjercitoAire | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team.
