Pilot Rescued After Jet Crashes Off California Coast
An MK-58 Hawker Hunter experienced engine failure, prompting a mayday call and ejection near Morro Bay.
A pilot successfully ejected from an MK-58 Hawker Hunter jet that crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the coast of California on Tuesday evening, according to reports. The incident occurred near Morro Bay, prompting an emergency response that resulted in the pilot's rescue.
The aircraft went down around 6:50 p.m. near San Luis Obispo after the pilot reported an engine issue, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) confirmed.
Air traffic control audio obtained by ABC News from LiveATC.net captured the pilot issuing a mayday call. "Mayday, mayday, mayday. I have lost thrust in my engine," the pilot stated.
The Hawker Hunter was operating under a contract to support training for U.S. armed forces, according to Airborne Tactical Advantage Company (ATAC), which owns the aircraft. The Navy has grounded Hawker Hunters operated by ATAC as the incident is under investigation.
The FAA will lead the investigation into the crash.
This incident follows several recent aviation events that have drawn attention. In late August, an unauthorized flight of a stolen small plane in Hungary prompted fighter jet responses. Separately, a Delta Air Lines flight recently returned to its origin airport shortly after takeoff due to a medical emergency on board.