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Officials: Fighter aircraft experiences 'in-flight emergency' during landing at 180th Fighter Wing

The pilot safely exited the aircraft, officials say.

SWANTON, Ohio — An F-16 fighter aircraft experienced an "in-flight emergency" at the 180th Fighter Wing in Swanton Wednesday, according to authorities. 

In a press release, officials said the aircraft experienced the emergency during landing on the runway at the Eugene F. Kranz Toledo Express Airport, out of which the 180th operates. The incident occurred at approximately 11:20 a.m.

The pilot exited the aircraft safely, according to the press release. 

Emergency crews responded to the airport following the incident just before noon. The Swanton Fire and Rescue Division told WTOL 11 they were called out to the scene, but their run was later canceled. 

WTOL 11 could see an F-16 aircraft near the runway, alongside an emergency vehicle. 

It is currently unknown what led to the incident, but the 180th said the emergency is under further investigation. Details would be released as they become available, the 180th said. 

WTOL 11 viewer Joe Meier took the following photo, which shows the aircraft in the grass alongside emergency crews. 

Credit: Joe Meier

The 180th Fighter Wing, was scheduled to conduct an air defense exercise over eastern Michigan between 8 a.m. and 11 a.m., according to a press release issued from the base Wednesday. It is unknown if this incident is related to the training operation. 

Stay with WTOL 11 on air, online and on our free mobile app for the latest in local news updates. 

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