The U.S. Air Force says a F-16 fighter jet crashed in central South Korea but its pilot ejected safely.

The 51st Fighter Wing said in a statement that the crash took place around noon Wednesday. Officials were investigating the cause.

The Air Force would not say whether the crashed plane had been flying as part of training under way in the area.

South Korean local government officials said the plane crashed into a paddy field.

About 28,500 U.S. troops are stationed in South Korea as a deterrent against North Korea.