A U.S. Navy E/A-18G Growler Electronic Warfare aircraft crashed into San Diego Bay on Wednesday morning around 10:15 AM local time. The jet was approaching Naval Air Station North Island when it suddenly plunged into the water.
A dramatic video captured the moment the aircraft nose-dived at high speed, creating a massive splash and sending debris into the air. Fortunately, both pilots ejected safely before the crash and were quickly rescued by a nearby fishing boat, the U.S. Coast Guard confirmed.
Incident Details
According to the Navy, the crash happened during a “go-around maneuver.” This is when a pilot attempts to land but then decides to take off again instead of completing the landing. The jet had just lifted off again when it lost control and crashed.
Navy spokesperson Commander Beth Teach confirmed that an investigation is underway to determine what went wrong.
Eyewitness Account
Brandon Viets, the captain of a fishing boat in the area, was out on a trip with guests when he noticed the aircraft behaving unusually. He heard the jet taking off and found it to be much louder than usual.
When he turned around to look, he saw two parachutes in the sky, indicating that the pilots had ejected. Viets said the plane was flying very low and stayed in the air for only a couple of minutes before it plunged into the water.
“I watched them hit the water, and I told my crew, ‘We got to go,’” Viets recalled. He and his team quickly moved toward the crash site, but the Coast Guard and Navy were already responding.
Aftermath and Investigation
Following the crash, U.S. Navy boats were seen working to contain an oil spill caused by the aircraft’s impact. Military officials are now investigating the cause of the accident.
Although the incident was alarming, it is a relief that both pilots survived without injuries. The Navy will continue examining the situation to prevent future crashes.
This incident highlights the risks involved in military aviation and the importance of emergency preparedness. The quick response of the Coast Guard, Navy, and local fishermen helped ensure the pilots’ safety.
