412th Test Wing Responds to F-16 Crash Published Dec. 18, 2025 By Mary Kozaitis Dec. 18, 2025 -- EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – The 412th Test Wing provided crucial support responding to an accident scene when an F-16C Fighting Falcon crashed near Trona, California on Dec. 3. An Air Force pilot flying a training mission in the jet ejected safely and is in stable condition. Immediately following the incident, the test wing quickly activated its support network, partnering with the 57th Wing, Naval Air Weapons Station China Lake and local police and fire authorities. Multiple teams from the test wing leveraged their unique expertise and resources to respond and secure the incident site. “Our priority was to collaborate with our partners in providing rapid and comprehensive support to the Interim Safety Board,” said Col. James Hayes, 412th Test Wing deputy commander. “The 412th is uniquely postured to quickly support accident investigations through technical expertise and access to a test range footprint.” On scene, 412th Security Forces Squadron partnered with the Navy to provide security and perimeter control, ensuring preservation of evidence and the safety of investigators and other responders. The wing Safety office provided personnel and expertise to assist the Interim Safety Board’s effort to secure and preserve the incident site. 412th Maintenance Group Airmen collected data from aircraft remnants and provided F-16-specific technical expertise. The 412th Medical Group provided on-scene medical support, documented the pilot’s condition, performed fit testing for personal protective equipment used in site recovery and completed air sampling. The 412th Civil Engineer Group searched the site for any remaining explosive hazards from the F-16 egress systems and took actions to reduce the remaining explosive hazards on the seat to allow teammates to conduct the investigation. “As the interim flight surgeon for the safety board, my initial priority was to ensure the well-being of all personnel involved in the immediate response and investigation,” said Lt. Col. Kallyn Harencak, 412th Operational Medical Readiness Squadron commander. “We focused on providing immediate medical support, preserving evidence and ensuring a safe working environment so the investigation team can thoroughly determine the cause of the incident and prevent future occurrences." The test wing’s rapid response and comprehensive support reflects its commitment to ensuring collaborative aviation safety and contributing to thorough accident investigations, Hayes said. "We conducted a comprehensive assessment of the F-16's egress systems, specifically focusing on the canopy and ejection seat,” said Tech. Sgt. Daniel Gates, Explosive Ordinance Disposal section chief on the scene. “Our team identified and conducted render safe procedures on the remaining seat components, enabling the investigation to proceed safely and without delay. The Safety Investigation Board is continuing its investigation into the underlying cause.