FRESNO, Calif. (KSEE/KGPE) – An F-15C fighter aircraft assigned to the 144th Fighter Wing in Fresno declared an in-flight emergency in the skies above Fresno on Thursday, according to the California Air National Guard.
The pilot had declared a landing gear issue but followed established procedures and returned safely to base, officials say. On the ground, the Fresno Fire Department, police and ambulance crews had assembled near the landing area in case their assistance was needed.
The 144th Fighter Wing added that, in situations like this, it is normal for a second aircraft to provide mutual support to the emergency aircraft.
Before the aircraft returns to routine flight, maintenance at the Air National Guard base will fix the issue and ensure that the plane is safe to return to service…