US F-16 fighter Jet crashes During Training Mission

US F-16 fighter jet has crashed two miles south of Joint Base Andrews, near Washington DC while the plane was carrying out routine training mission.

However, the pilot was able to eject from the plane and was located by emergency services, NBC Washington reported today.

Lockheed Martin jet appears to have gone down in a wooded area in Clinton, Maryland. Some roads are closed in the area.

Mark Brady of the Prince George's County Fire & Emergency Services, said: “We have reports that there was one pilot on board the aircraft who parachuted out, and has been picked up by a military helicopter and has been taken to an area hospital."

The pilot was assigned to the 113th Wing which guards the US against threats by air. 

Military officials have reportedly locked down as they investigate the cause of the crash. As the pilot trained, he realized something was wrong with his jet, military officials said at a news conference.

"The pilot experienced a mechanical issue and immediately took actions," said Brig. Gen. George Degnon, acting adjutant general of the D.C. Air National Guard.

"Once he realized he would not be able to safely land the aircraft, he made a decision to maneuver to a wooded area to avoid the risk to local community and ensure public safety." Degnon added. The pilot dumped the fuel he was carrying, looked for somewhere to crash and ejected.