A pilot was killed in a crash while performing this afternoon in an air show at Travis Air Force Base in Fairfield, prompting evacuations and shutting down the base, authorities said.
The pilot of the Stearman biplane was performing “an acrobatic aerial maneuver” around 2:05 p.m. during the Travis Air Force Base Thunder Over Solano air show and open house when it crashed, according to a statement from the base.
“Local emergency responders told us that the pilot did not survive,” Federal Aviation Administration spokesman Lynn Lunsford said in an email.
The pilot has not been identified.
Pilots of both civilian and military aircraft had been performing various aerial maneuvers before a crowd of people when the crash occurred, base spokeswoman Rachel Martinez said.
The crash prompted the air force base to shut down and cancel the remainder of the show.
“Our Travis team has responded to this tragic incident and are ensuring the safety of everyone on the installation,” said Lt. Col. Eric Weber, air expo director.
Fairfield police have shut down eastbound lanes of Air Base Parkway at Peabody Road to provide traffic control in the area.
Police are advising motorists in the area to expect delays.
The air show last took place at the military base three years ago, Martinez said.
Base officials are requesting any photos or video footage of the crash taken by people at the air show to assist with the investigation.
Anyone with images of the accident is asked to call (707) 424-2000 for further instructions.
A news conference addressing the crash will be held at the base at 5:30 p.m., according to base officials.
Laura Dixon/Jeff Burbank, Bay City News
