Pilot killed as Thai fighter jet crashes at air show
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}In this image made from video, a plume of smoke and fire rises from the site where a fighter jet crashed during and airshow, Saturday, Jan. 4, 2017, in Hat Yai, southern Thailand. A Thai air force pilot died when the JAS Gripen fighter jet crashed during an air show celebrating the country's Children's Day. (AP Photo) (The Associated Press)
A Thai air force pilot has died when his fighter jet crashed at an air show during the country's Children's Day.
Amateur video footage shows the JAS 39 Gripen jet maneuvering over the Hat Yai air base in southern Thailand when it suddenly lost altitude and crashed in a ball of fire away from spectators.
The Ministry of Defense is investigating the cause of the crash on Saturday.
{{#rendered}} {{/rendered}}Deputy government spokesman Werachon Sukondhapatipakerachon says Prime Minister Prayuth Chan-ocha expressed condolences to the pilot's family.
Children's Day is usually observed with public outings at military bases.