F-16 fighter jet narrowly misses onlookers near Waddington Air Show
Spectators threw themselves to the ground as the plane passed overhead
Support truly
independent journalism
Our mission is to deliver unbiased, fact-based reporting that holds power to account and exposes the truth.
Whether $5 or $50, every contribution counts.
Support us to deliver journalism without an agenda.
Louise Thomas
Editor
Aviation enthusiasts got a bit closer to the action than they expected when an F-16 fighter jet missed their heads by feet as it came in to land.
Footage of the moment at the Waddington International Air Show in Lincolnshire show shows spectators waving as the Turkish aircraft approached in the distance.
But as it got closer, and lower, some panicked and people can be seen ducking and running for cover.
As people recovered after the narrow miss, one man remarked: “That was a bit close, wasn’t it.”
The spectators did not seem to be ticket-holders at the Air Show, which sold out, and were standing on a public road outside the RAF base where it is held.
The fence separating them from the landing strip displays a sign warning people not to climb on it.
More than 150,000 people were expected at the 20th annual show, at an RAF base near Lincoln.
The Red Arrows put on a display and iconic Spitfires and Typhoons were among the 160 aircraft on show.
All proceeds from the two-day event go to the RAF and local charities.
Next year’s event has been cancelled because of £35 million improvement works on the runway.
Subscribe to Independent Premium to bookmark this article
Want to bookmark your favourite articles and stories to read or reference later? Start your Independent Premium subscription today.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments