“MiG-23 Jet Crashes at Michigan Air Show, Pilots Eject Safely”

BELLEVILLE, Mich. (FOX 2) – The aircraft involved in the crash at a Michigan air show, which led to the pilots ejecting before it collided with a Belleville apartment complex, has been identified as a MiG-23UB.

The plane was taking part in the Yankee Air Museum’s Thunder over Michigan air show when it suddenly caught fire and erupted into flames at around 4 p.m. on Sunday. Both pilots who ejected from the aircraft did not sustain any significant injuries but were taken to a nearby hospital as a precautionary measure, according to the airport authority.

Several witnesses at the Willow Run Airport show captured the moment the jet crashed, causing a plume of black smoke to fill the sky. The Federal Aviation Administration confirmed that no one at the apartment complex was harmed.

The crash occurred during the Afternoon Air Show, as stated on the event’s schedule. 

MORE: Jet crashes during Thunder over Michigan airshow

The cause of the crash remains unclear, and officials are currently conducting an investigation at the scene.

What is a MiG-23?

According to the FAA’s registry, the crashed plane was a MiG-23UB, a single-engine fixed-wing aircraft. Its registered owner is based in Texas. 

The aircraft was manufactured in 1981.

Short for Mikoyan-Gurevich, the MiG-23UB is a Soviet-era jet that has been utilized in various conflicts, including several missions in the Middle East.

This particular model has two seats and can be used for striking, reconnaissance, or target designation purposes. The jet variant first took flight in 1970, and over 1,000 units were produced. 

Where did the crash occur?

The specific air show was held at Willow Run Airport in Ypsilanti Charter Township.

Shortly after 4 p.m. during the demonstration, the plane caught fire and crashed into a parking lot at the Waverly on the Lake apartments in Belleville. 

Were there any injuries?

According to authorities, no injuries have been reported as a result of the crash. 

Both pilots successfully ejected from the jet and were located shortly after. They did not appear to have any injuries but were taken to the hospital as a precautionary measure.

No individuals were struck by debris either. However, the plane did collide with unoccupied vehicles in the apartment complex’s parking lot. 

What are officials stating?

Multiple agencies have issued statements regarding the crash, including Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, whose district includes Belleville and Ypsilanti.

“I have been in contact with all relevant authorities regarding the crash during the Thunder Over Michigan air show at Willow Run Airport in Ypsilanti. At this time, it appears that both pilots are safe, and no human injuries have been reported. Ensuring everyone’s safety through comprehensive physical assessments is the top priority. People should continue to avoid the area. I am grateful that everyone seems to be safe.”

Detroit Metro Airport also released a statement indicating that the crash occurred during a MiG-23 demonstration.

“Shortly after 4:00 p.m. on Sunday, a MiG-23 demonstration plane participating in the Yankee Air Museum’s Thunder over Michigan air show crashed into the parking lot at the Waverly on the Lake Apartments in Belleville. The pilot and backseater successfully ejected from the aircraft before the crash. While there were no apparent significant injuries, first responders transported both individuals to a nearby hospital as a precaution.

“The aircraft collided with unoccupied vehicles in the apartment complex’s parking lot. No one at the apartment complex or the air show was injured. The FAA is conducting an investigation into the crash.”

Van Buren Township recommended that any residents temporarily displaced by the crash at the Waverly Apartment Complex report to their clubhouse. The Red Cross was present to provide assistance.