San Diego, California: A United States Navy EA-18G Growler crashed into the San Diego Bay in California while attempting to land at Naval Air Station (NAS) North Island, according to Navy officials. The two-person crew successfully ejected and was quickly rescued from the water before being transported to a local hospital for medical evaluation.
The aircraft, assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135, went down at approximately 10:15 AM PDT (11:45 pm IST, Wednesday), the Naval Air Force confirmed in an official statement.
“Two aircrew ejected into San Diego Bay and were quickly recovered before being transported to a local hospital for medical assessment,” the statement read. Later in the day, the US Navy confirmed that both aviators were in good condition following the crash.
“The aircraft remains submerged, and response teams are actively assessing the scene,” the statement added.
Security measures have been implemented, including containment booms around the crash site to prevent the spread of fuel and debris. Harbor Security boats are patrolling the area, and environmental and safety teams are working to mitigate potential hazards. No civilian injuries or property damage have been reported.
According to emergency radio traffic, the two-seat electronic warfare aircraft was on approach to NAS North Island when it flew over the runway and and then crashed into the bay. The crew was initially rescued by a sport fishing charter boat before being transferred to a Customs and Border Protection vessel, which took them ashore.
The Growler had flown in from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington and was in San Diego for an exercise, the Navy confirmed. The aircraft was not assigned to the air wing currently training with the Nimitz Carrier Strike Group.