Two F-16s Make Emergency Landing in Myrtle Beach

Two U.S. Air Force F-16 fighter jets were forced to make emergency landings Monday morning at Myrtle Beach International Airport after experiencing mechanical issues mid-flight.

The jets, assigned to the 20th Fighter Wing at Shaw Air Force Base in Sumter, South Carolina, had been on routine training missions when the problem occurred. Eyewitnesses reported seeing and hearing the aircraft circling the area before both planes touched down safely around 9:30 a.m.

Airport officials confirmed the emergency landings did not disrupt commercial operations. As a precaution, the runway and taxiway were inspected immediately afterward—standard protocol following military landings.

Capt. James Stewart, chief of public affairs at Shaw AFB, stated:
“Two U.S. Air Force F-16 aircraft were conducting training missions and were scheduled to return to base when they diverted to Myrtle Beach International Airport… Both aircraft landed safely.”

The specific nature of the mechanical issue remains undisclosed.

The F-16, known for its agility and combat performance, is a key part of the 20th Fighter Wing’s operational readiness. Monday’s incident highlights the importance of rigorous maintenance and rapid response protocols that ensure pilot safety—even when things go wrong.