October 8, 2014 6.27 pm This story is over 113 months old

Pilot safe after US military jet crashes in Lincolnshire

US jet crash: The pilot of a US military aircraft that crashed in a field in Lincolnshire managed to eject before the incident and he is safe.

The pilot of a US military aircraft that crashed in a field in Lincolnshire managed to eject before the incident and he is safe.

The crash happened at around 3.30pm a field off Broad Gate, Weston Hills, near Spalding.

The field is near houses and a school and many locals witnessed the crash and reported it to emergency services.

The US Air Force said the F-15D jet was from the 48th Fighter Wing based at RAF Lakenheath in Suffolk.

The aircraft crashed during a combat training exercise. The pilot ejected in time and is reportedly unharmed.

RAF Lakenheath said in a tweet: “We can confirm that one of our jets went down north of the base, in Lincolnshire. The pilot ejected and is safe.”

A cordon has been put in place as emergency services arrived, and people were advised to avoid the area as the plane was on fire and the fumes could be hazardous.

By 7.30pm, all residents were able to return to their homes and the fire was put out, although local people have been advised to keep their windows closed as a precautionary measure.

An inner and outer cordon remains in place, guarded by officers from Lincolnshire Police and the MOD Police.

Police warned the scene is subject to a forensic investigation and it is a serious matter if anyone interferes with the scene in any way.

The road closures will remain in place overnight and motorists are asked to follow the diversions.