US Navy pilots break free as EA-18G Growler jet slams into San Diego Bay: video

Two United States (US) Navy pilots managed to break free from a Boeing EA-18G Growler jet whilst the aircraft hurtled towards the San Diego Bay.  

US Navy officials confirmed that the two pilots ejected from the EA-18G Growler before impact and were rescued promptly from the water after the incident.  

The dramatic events unfolded on February 12, 2025, at around 10:15 local time, when the US Navy aircraft was landing in the area. 

The pilots, from the Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 135 based out of Naval Air Station Whidbey Island in Washington, were taken to UC San Diego Medical Center for medical assessment. 

The US Navy said that the two individuals were in “good condition and are under 24-hour medical observation out of an abundance of caution”. 

San Diego Fire Department logged an emergency incident at 10:42 indicating that two pilots were on a plane that crashed into the water near Shelter Island and had been rescued. The incident was subsequently closed. 

Local media reported that the pilots were rescued from the water by a fishing boat within minutes and then transferred to a Customs and Border patrol vessel. 

#BREAKING: A U.S. Navy Boeing EA-18G Growler just crashed in San Diego Bay during a “training exercise”, officials say the 2 pilots were rescued by a fishing boat and sustained no injuries. pic.twitter.com/yMgAqRyDi7— Insider Wire (@InsiderWire) February 12, 2025 In its most recent update, the US Navy said that aircraft was still submerged, and response teams are assessing the scene.  

“Harbor Security boats are on site securing the area, and a containment boom was placed around the crash site to minimize the spread of fuel and debris. Environmental and safety teams are working to mitigate any potential impacts. There are no reports of civilian injuries or damage at this time,” said a spokesperson for the US Navy. 

 They added: “The public is reminded to not approach, touch, or collect any debris that may wash ashore. Anyone who encounters suspected aircraft debris should report it to local authorities or call Naval Base Coronado.” 

Holy moly pic.twitter.com/jDoYMB9Dyh— kaden (@avphotos05) February 12, 2025 The EA-18G Growler is described by the US Navy as a “variant in the F/A-18 family of aircraft that combines the proven F/A-18F Super Hornet platform with a sophisticated electronic warfare suite.” 

The investigation into the crash is ongoing.  

On October 15, 2024, two US Navy pilots were killed when their EA-18G Growler crashed east of Mount Rainier in Washington.   

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