Navy Pilots Unharmed in San Diego Bay Aircraft Crash
San Diego, California – Two U.S. Navy pilots miraculously escaped unscathed after their military aircraft crashed into San Diego Bay near Shelter Island on Wednesday morning.
The Incident
At approximately 10:15 a.m., a Navy EA-18G Growler, assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135, crashed during a landing maneuver. The aircraft was submerged in the bay as of Wednesday evening.
The pilots, whose identities have not been released, ejected safely into San Diego Bay and were immediately recovered by a nearby charter fishing boat. They were then transported to a local hospital for medical assessment, where they were reported to be in "good condition" and under 24-hour observation.
Emergency Response
Harbor Security boats and environmental and safety teams are actively assessing the scene and working to mitigate any potential environmental impacts. A containment boom has been placed around the crash site to minimize the spread of fuel and debris.
The Navy is urging the public to avoid approaching, touching, or collecting any debris that may wash ashore. Suspected aircraft wreckage should be reported to local authorities or Naval Base Coronado.
Investigation
An investigation into the cause of the crash is ongoing. The Navy’s Emergency Operations Center at Naval Base Coronado remains active, coordinating the response and investigation efforts.
The EA-18G Growler
The Navy’s EA-18G Growler is a highly advanced electronic warfare aircraft designed to disrupt enemy communications and radar systems. It is based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington.
Pilot Rescue
The two pilots were rescued from the water by a charter fishing boat operated by H&M Landing, a West Coast sportfishing company. According to company general manager Frank Ursitti, the boat’s captain witnessed the incident and immediately turned around to assist the pilots.
Ursitti stated, "As all of our crews are trained in lifesaving efforts, immediately came about, turned around picked up both pilots that were in the water. And as they were boarding the pilots on the water, (the captain) observed the plane actually ditch into San Diego Bay."
The pilots were then picked up by a U.S. Customs and Border Protection vessel and taken to shore.
Ongoing Efforts
Response and recovery efforts are expected to continue for the foreseeable future. The Navy is collaborating with local authorities and environmental agencies to assess the situation and minimize any potential hazards.
