An F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet crashed in the US during a training flight
This is according to Task & Purpose.
The crash occurred near Mount Rainier in Washington State. The F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet, which belonged to the 11th Marine Aircraft Group of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing of the US Marine Corps, was on a routine training flight. Around midday, the aircraft crashed and fell near Lake Rimrock. A fire broke out in the area following the fighter jet’s crash.
What happened to the pilot
The pilot managed to eject before the aircraft hit the ground. He was found by staff from the local sheriff’s office and handed over to paramedics. He was taken to hospital for examination. The causes of the F/A-18 Hornet crash are being investigated by the Marine Corps command.
A fire broke out following the crash
The crash of the aircraft near Lake Rimrock sparked a forest fire. Several helicopters and ground fire crews were deployed to tackle the blaze. Local authorities evacuated people in the vicinity of the crash site, including campsite visitors. The area where the aircraft crashed has been temporarily cordoned off whilst emergency services are working there. Task & Purpose noted that there have been previous military aircraft accidents near Mount Rainier. In October 2024, an EA-18G Growler crashed there during a training mission. Two crew members were killed at the time.
Read more breaking news on our Telegram channel.