Two F-5 Tiger aircraft of the Patrouille Suisse, the Swiss Air Force's aerobatic display team, made contact mid-air during training on June 15, 2023. The incident occurred in the Baar/Zug area of Switzerland. One of the aircraft suffered significant damage and was forced to make an emergency landing. The other aircraft was able to return to base safely. No injuries were reported.
The cause of the incident is under investigation. However, it is believed that the two aircraft may have come into contact during a routine training maneuver. The Patrouille Suisse is a nine-member aerobatic team that has been performing since 1964. The team is known for its precision flying and its distinctive red, white, and blue aircraft.
The incident is the first time that the Patrouille Suisse has been involved in a mid-air collision. The team has a long history of safe flying and has never had a fatal accident.
The Swiss Air Force has taken steps to prevent a similar incident from happening again. The team has been grounded while the investigation is ongoing. The Air Force has also reviewed its training procedures and has implemented new safety measures. The Patrouille Suisse is expected to resume flying once the investigation is complete and the new safety measures are in place.