AN American FA-18 fighter jet crashed on Monday in Philippine Sea while conducting routine operations, a news statement from the commander of the US 7th Fleet said.
The fighter jet, part of the Carrier Air Wing 5, embarked on aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan that is currently on its way to the area of operations of the 7th Fleet in support of security and stability in Indo-Pacific region.
The statement posted on the web site of the 7th Fleet did not give complete details about the crash, but said the fighter jet experienced “mechanical issues,” prompting its crew to eject.
“The crew was immediately and safely recovered by USS Ronald Reagan [CVN 76] search and rescue aircraft and brought back to the ship for evaluation by medical personnel. Based on an initial assessment, both pilots are in good condition,” it said.
The statement said the crash is being investigated while the carrier has resumed its normal operations.