A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler aircraft crashed into San Diego Bay near Naval Air Station North Island on Wednesday morning, prompting a swift rescue operation for the two pilots onboard. The incident occurred just after 10:16 a.m. local time near Shelter Island.
The two aviators were quickly pulled from the water by the crew of the Premier, a fishing vessel operated by H&M Landing. The company stated the aircraft suffered a "mechanical failure" prior to the crash. According to H&M Landing, the Premier was nearby and immediately responded after witnessing the pilots eject. The crew reached the pilots before they even hit the water, providing immediate assistance and ensuring their safety.
The Coast Guard confirmed the pilots were in the water for approximately one minute before being rescued. They were then transferred to U.S. Customs and Border Patrol Air and Marine Operations and subsequently transported to a local hospital, where they are reportedly in stable condition.
The Coast Guard reported that the wreckage of the Growler, an advanced electronic warfare aircraft valued at approximately $67 million, remains submerged in the bay. A Navy official indicated that it is currently unknown whether a distress signal was sent before the crash, and the pilots' identities have not been released. A full investigation into the cause of the incident is underway.
