A HUGE search is underway after a US Air Force fighter jet crashed in the North Sea off Flamborough Head.

The jet, reported to be a F15C Eagle, went into the sea at about 9.40 this morning.

The USAF confirmed that they a plane from the 48th Fighter Wing, RAF Lakenheath had come down.

It said that at the time of the accident, the aircraft was on a routine training mission with one pilot on board.

It added that the cause of the crash as well as the status of the pilot are unknown but that Search and Rescue had been called to support.

The East Yorkshire and Bridlington coastguard has confirmed a major operation is underway.