Pilot dead as F-18 fighter of Spanish Air Force crashes near Madrid

A Spanish Air Force F-18 has crashed around the base of Torrejón de Ardoz on Tuesday morning, killing its pilot, according to the Spanish Defence Ministry.

Witnesses said the fighter jet fell at 11:00 local time, which caused heavy smoke in the area.

The regional emergency services and the Red Cross are moving to the scene.

As a result of the accident, which happened during take-off, the plane's pilot has died, the Spanish defense ministry said in a tweet following the crash.

As reported, the cause of the accident is under investigation.

(CGTN)