A U.S. Air Force Thunderbird pilot ejected safely Wednesday from an F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft during a training mission near China Lake in Southern California, Nellis Air Force Base officials said in a news release.

The crash happened at about 10:45 a.m. about 30 miles from Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake in San Bernardino County.

The Thunderbirds, which conduct demonstrations and perform air shows and flyovers for people around the world, practice during the winter at Nellis Air Force Base, near Las Vegas.

“The pilot is in stable condition and receiving follow-on care,” Nellis Air Force Base stated.

The incident was under investigation Wednesday afternoon.

Witnesses said they saw an explosion and a thick plume of smoke when the aircraft crashed.

Hundreds of people left supportive messages on social media for the squadron after hearing the news.

In 2018, Thunderbirds pilot Maj. Stephen Del Bagno died in the first fatal crash in decades. A report revealed the pilot temporarily lost consciousness during a high-G maneuver and was incapacitated before crashing at the Nevada Test and Training Range near Nellis Air Force Base.

The Thunderbirds perform all around the world, showcasing elite flying skills in F-16 Fighting Falcons. The demonstrations are a mix of six aircraft performing formation flying and solo routines.

The last show was scheduled at the beginning of November at the Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi, but was canceled because of the lengthy federal government shutdown.

The pilots routinely train at Nellis Air Force Base, where the squadron is stationed. The base, which is about 120 miles from Wednesday’s crash site, is used for practice and certification flights, including flying in close formation.

The team announced its new leader last month, Lt. Col. Alexander “Knight” Prevendar, who took the position of Thunderbird 1, or squadron commander, for the 2026 to 2027 show seasons.

Prevendar has more than 3,300 flight hours and 1,000 combat hours, and has served in several operations.

The squadron said last month it was grateful for the crowds at each demonstration this year.

“As we close out an incredible season, we’re grateful for every community, every crowd, and every moment that reminded us why we fly,” the Thunderbirds posted on social media last month. “As with every season, some of our teammates will transition to new roles and new faces will join the formation. But one thing remains constant: our mission to recruit, retain, and inspire the next generation of Airmen!”