BAKERSFIELD, Calif. (KBAK/KBFX) — An Air Force Thunderbirds pilot was taken to a hospital with non-life-threatening injuries after a a F-16C Fighting Falcon crashed in a dry lake bed near Trona.
The San Bernardino County Fire Department said crews were assisting China Lake emergency resources with fire suppression stemming from a downed aircraft in the dry lake bed near Trona.
Trona is located east of Ridgecrest in San Bernardino County.
Air Force Thunderbirds said on December 3, 2025, at around 10:45 a.m., a Thunderbird pilot ejected safely from a F-16C Fighting Falcon aircraft during a training mission over controlled airspace in California.
Officials said the pilot, and solo-occupant, was treated and taken by on-scene personnel for non-life-threatening injuries.
According to officials, the pilot was taken to a hospital. Thunderbirds said the pilot is in “stable” condition and receiving follow-on care.
Fire officials said there was no threat to surrounding vegetation from the fire.
The public is asked to avoid the immediate area.
Officials said there is no threat to the community.
The Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake is assuming command of the scene. The incident is under investigation.
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