Two U.S. Navy pilots were rescued after their military plane crashed into San Diego Bay near Shelter Island early Wednesday morning. The incident, involving an EA-18G Growler—a variant of the F/A-18 Super Hornet equipped with advanced electronic warfare capabilities—has sparked an investigation by local and Navy authorities.
Military Plane Crash in San Diego
At approximately 10:15 a.m., San Diego Fire-Rescue received reports of a plane crash in San Diego when an EA-18G Growler, a variant of the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, crashed into the waters of the bay near 1561 Shelter Island Dr., close to the Kona Kai San Diego Resort. The aircraft was assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135, based at Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington. Authorities confirmed that the navy plane crash involved only two service members on board.
Swift Rescue Efforts
The dramatic turn of events saw a charter fishing boat from H & M Landing being the first to arrive at the scene. General Manager Frank Ursitti explained that the captain of the Premier witnessed the pilots eject from the aircraft and immediately turned the vessel around to render assistance. “As all of our crews are trained in lifesaving efforts, we turned around and picked up both pilots in the water,” Ursitti said. The pilots, who had been in the water for roughly one minute, were rescued by the boat and later transferred to a U.S. Customs and Border Protection Air and Marine Operations vessel.
The U.S. Coast Guard confirmed the rapid response, noting that both aviators were subsequently transported to UC San Diego Medical Center in Hillcrest, where they remain in stable condition. This swift action underlines the importance of community readiness and inter-agency cooperation in emergencies.
What Is The EA-18G Growler?
The EA-18G Growler is renowned as the “first line of defense in hostile environments” for the U.S. Navy, equipped with an array of sensors and weapons to combat modern threats. Its advanced electronic warfare suite allows it to disrupt enemy radar and communications, making it an essential asset in military operations. The aircraft’s role and capabilities underscore the gravity of a military plane crash in San Diego, as such incidents involve cutting-edge technology and highly trained personnel.
This recent event follows a similar tragic incident in October 2024, when an EA-18G Growler from Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 130 crashed during a training flight near Mount Rainier, Washington. That event, which had a more devastating outcome, highlights the inherent risks of operating high-performance military jets.
Investigation Underway
Naval Base Coronado has already set up an emergency operations center to investigate the cause of the San Diego plane crash. Harbor Security boats are currently working at the underwater crash site to secure the area and minimize any potential environmental impact. Oil seepage observed in the bay has prompted additional precautions, and Navy officials have cautioned the public against approaching any debris. “Anyone who encounters suspected aircraft debris should report it to local authorities or call Naval Base Coronado,” stated a Navy news release.
Retired military pilots have also weighed in on the incident. Ron Alvarado, a former Marine Corps pilot, speculated that the jet might have been executing a turn when it lost lift. “It could have flown until it lost lift or the inputs that the pilot last put into the controls had it going into a left turn, whereupon it actually crashed into the bay,” Alvarado explained to NBC 7. Jim Kidrick, CEO of the San Diego Air and Space Museum and a retired Navy commander, emphasized the significance of proper training. “The primary goal is to prevent such incidents. Thankfully, both pilots are alive and will likely fly again,” he said.
Public Safety and Environmental Concerns
In the wake of the navy plane crash, local authorities and the Navy are closely monitoring the situation. The crash site remains under investigation, and emergency crews continue efforts to mitigate any environmental hazards posed by the downed aircraft. Residents near Shelter Island described witnessing the dramatic event, with one onlooker recounting, “I heard a pop and saw debris falling right in front of my car.” Such firsthand accounts underline the sudden and impactful nature of the incident.
As investigations continue, authorities are committed to uncovering the full story behind this plane crash in San Diego and ensuring that measures are in place to prevent future incidents.
Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.
