US Naval Plane Crashes: Rescue Mission Underway

US Navy Plane Crash Sparks Rescue Effort

This isn't the first time a military aircraft has crashed in the Mount Rainier area...

US Naval EA-18G Growler crashes near Mount Rainier, Washington: 2 crew members missing, search & rescue underway.

Tragedy struck on Tuesday, October 15, when a US Naval aircraft, an EA-18G Growler electronic attack jet, crashed near Mount Rainier in Washington state during a routine training flight. The incident occurred in the evening, and an active search and rescue operation was promptly launched. Unfortunately, as of 7 p.m. on Wednesday, October 15, the condition of the two crew members on board remains unknown.

This isn't the first time a military aircraft has crashed in the Mount Rainier area. In 1946, a Curtis Commando R5C transport plane carrying 32 US Marines crashed into the mountain, resulting in one of the worst aviation disasters in US history. The wreckage was only discovered months later, and due to the treacherous terrain, the bodies of the Marines were never recovered.

In the current incident, the Navy has reported that the EA-18G Growler was on a standard training flight when it crashed. The cause of the crash is still unknown, and the search and rescue operation is ongoing. The incident serves as a reminder of the risks and sacrifices made by military personnel and their families.

Incident Details:

• Date: Tuesday, October 15
• Location: Near Mount Rainier, Washington state
• Aircraft: EA-18G Growler electronic attack jet
• Crew: 2 members, condition unknown
• Rescue Coordination: Navy MH-60S helicopter from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island
• Cause: Under investigation

Rescue operations are underway after a US Naval aircraft, an EA-18G Growler electronic attack jet, crashed near Mount Rainier in Washington state during a routine training flight. A Navy MH-60S helicopter from Naval Air Station Whidbey Island, north of Seattle, has been deployed to coordinate the search efforts.

The incident occurred on Tuesday, October 15, but details about the cause of the crash and the status of the two crew members on board remain unknown. The Navy has confirmed the crash and assured that updates will be provided as more information becomes available.

This isn't the first time a military aircraft has crashed in the Mount Rainier area. In 1978, a Lockheed P-3 Orion ditched into the Bering Sea, and a dramatic rescue effort ensued, involving a Coast Guard Hercules and a Soviet fishing trawler. The rescue operation was successful, but the incident highlights the risks and challenges involved in search and rescue missions.

The Navy's Aircraft Emergency Rescue Information Manual outlines procedures for rescue operations, including aircraft hazards, danger areas, and procedures for aircraft entry and aircrew release. As the search continues, officials will follow these guidelines to ensure the best possible outcome.