Navy EA-18G Growler Crashes in San Diego Bay, Pilots Rescued

A U.S. Navy EA-18G Growler crashed into San Diego Bay near Shelter Island on February 12 while attempting to land at Naval Air Station North Island. Fortunately, both pilots ejected safely and were quickly rescued by a fishing boat before being transferred to a Customs and Border Protection vessel and taken to a local hospital, where they are reported to be in stable condition. The crash occurred around 10:15 a.m. local time amid low visibility conditions, and witnesses described the aircraft maneuvering before it lost altitude and crashed. The Navy has initiated an investigation into the incident and established an Emergency Operations Center for assessment of the crash site. Coast Guard vessels are currently safeguarding the wreckage to prevent environmental hazards. This incident follows a recent history of military aviation accidents, highlighting ongoing concerns within the service.