US: F-22 crashes in Florida during training flight

Pilot safely ejects and has been hospitalised in stable condition for observation, says US Air Force

WASHINGTON: An advanced F-22 stealth fighter crashed near Eglin Air Force Base in Florida state during a routine training flight after the pilot safely ejected.

The USAF did not disclose the pilot's name, but said he is in stable condition after being admitted to a hospital on the base for observation.

The crash of the $150 million aircraft occurred about 12 miles (19 kilometres) northeast of Eglin on the base's test and training range, the Air Force said in a statement.

"There was no loss of life or civilian property damage related to the crash," it said.

An investigation will be launched into the crash.