An unexpected moment of panic unfolded at an air show in Zaragoza, Spain, when an F-18 fighter jet came dangerously close to the crowd after swerving to avoid a flock of birds mid-air. The incident, which occurred during a routine display, was captured on video and has since gone viral online.

Eyewitnesses reported a loud roar as the jet approached at high speed, only to sharply veer off course just meters above the spectators. The pilot’s quick thinking helped avoid a possible disaster, as the aircraft narrowly missed the crowd and managed to regain altitude.

According to local authorities, the bird strike was sudden and forced the pilot to make a rapid decision. Bird strikes are a known risk during air shows and flights near open fields or coastlines. Fortunately, no injuries were reported, and the jet landed safely at a nearby airbase shortly after.

The Spanish Air Force has acknowledged the incident and confirmed that a full review will be conducted. They praised the pilot for maintaining control under pressure and preventing what could have been a tragic outcome.

Events like this highlight how even highly controlled environments, such as military demonstrations, come with unpredictable risks. Bird strikes, in particular, are taken seriously and pilots are trained extensively to respond to such scenarios.

For now, the air show has resumed as scheduled, though with a slightly more cautious tone. Organisers have said additional safety measures will be evaluated for future events.