F-15 returns safely to Nellis after losing its windshield

In what must have been a wild ride for one pilot Wednesday, officials at Nellis Air Force Base said an F-15C Eagle fighter jet lost its cockpit canopy while flying a test mission over the Nellis range in the Elgin-Caliente military area.

The aircraft took off from the base at 10:18 a.m. and landed safely back at the base without further incident at 10:39 a.m., said Nellis spokesman Capt. Justin McVay.

"That showcases the training they put these guys through on a daily basis," he said.

Both the aircraft and the pilot, whose name was not released, are assigned to the 85th Test and Evaluation Squadron from Eglin Air Force Base, Fla.

Nellis airmen were still searching late Wednesday for the canopy, which McVay described as a clear, sturdy enclosure or windshield that covers the aircraft's cockpit.

McVay said this was not the first time a fighter jet has lost its canopy in flight, but he said such incidents are rare.

A statement from the base said a board of officers will investigate the cause of the incident.

F-15C Eagles cruise at 570 mph, according to the manufacturer.