A full investigation into what caused a CF-18 fighter jet to crash Friday afternoon is now underway, but investigators will have to wait until the Alberta International Airshow in Lethbridge is over in order to move in on the crash site.

The airshow continued as planned, just one day after Captain Brian Bews managed to eject from his aircraft moments before it struck the ground and exploded. He was practicing a maneuver for the Alberta International Airshow when the crash happened.

Several onlookers watched in horror as the CF-18 crashed on Friday and over the weekend the stunt planes soaring overhead acted as a reminder to the dangers pilots face.

"Obviously the impact was shocking to all the volunteers that were around here, but its just a reminder that his can be a dangerous activity," said Alberta International Airshow president Rob Engen.

Investigators say they have to wait until the show wraps up this weekend before they can re-examine the crash site.

"The only reason we convene the investigation is to come up with preventative measures, really that's our goal, is to find out what happened, why it happened, so ultimately come up with effective preventative measures so it doesn't happen again," said lead investigator Major Kevin Roberts.

There are 13 people on the investigation team.  Officials say it could take up to one year for the military to have all the answers.

Captain Bews is expected to be released from hospital on Tuesday.