Two Russian air force fighters collide midair during rehearsals

TWO Russian air force fighters collided yesterday as they rehearsed for an air show near Moscow, killing a pilot and sending one jet crashing into houses below, a military official said.

The Su-27 fighters were members of the elite Russian Knights flying group preparing to perform at the MAKS-2009 air show. The largest and most important exhibition for Russia’s aerospace industry opens tomorrow.

Air force spokesman Lt Col Vladimir Drik said the jets collided near Zhukhovsky airfield, east of Moscow, where the air show will be held.

Drik said three pilots ejected from the jets after the collision. He said one was killed, while rescuers found the other two in satisfactory condition.

News agencies reported that the dead pilot was the commander.