The pilot of a Spanish Air Force EF-18 Hornet fighter jet nearly crashed during an air show over the weekend in Gijon, Asturias, in northern Spain, according to local media.
Footage shows the military aircraft flying at very low altitude towards a beach on Sunday before suddenly „rolling” in flight.
The pilot managed to regain control of the aircraft and safely eject from it a few moments later.
Local media reports that the pilot spotted some birds flying in his path, which forced him to perform an evasive maneuver following standard safety protocols.
"Our aviators are forced to react within milliseconds to any unforeseen event. In this case, the pilot acted with exemplary speed and professionalism, avoiding a potential collision without compromising the mission," authorities stated in a press release.
Bird strikes are the cause of many aviation incidents worldwide, most of which are minor.
They can severely damage aircraft engines, leading to fires and compromising the ability of an aircraft to land safely.