Pilot Rescued After Military Training Jet Crashes Into Pacific Ocean

California, United States — September 24, 2026

A pilot was rescued after a military training aircraft crashed into the Pacific Ocean off California’s Central Coast, authorities said.

“Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!”

The MK-58 Hawker Hunter crashed into the ocean about six miles northwest of Morro Bay on Tuesday evening after the pilot reported losing engine thrust.

Air traffic control recordings captured the pilot issuing a distress call before the crash, saying, “Mayday! Mayday! Mayday! I have lost thrust in my engine.”

The aircraft was carrying only the pilot. According to the Federal Aviation Administration, the pilot reported an engine problem before the aircraft went down.

Pilot Ejects Before the Crash

The pilot was able to eject from the aircraft before it reached the water, according to the National Transportation Safety Board and the aircraft’s operator, Airborne Tactical Advantage Company, known as ATAC.

A U.S. Navy search-and-rescue helicopter was dispatched from Naval Air Station Lemoore. The pilot was located in the water and rescued at approximately 7:30 p.m., according to the Navy.

He was taken to a hospital in Fresno for medical evaluation. ATAC said he was in good condition and had no significant injuries.

A Cold War-Era Aircraft

The aircraft involved was an MK-58 Hawker Hunter, a British-designed single-seat fighter originally developed in the 1950s. The aircraft was built in 1973 and is now used by ATAC for military training missions.

ATAC provides contracted aviation support for the U.S. military, including training exercises involving Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force crews.

Investigation Underway

The U.S. Navy temporarily grounded its Hawker Hunter aircraft following the crash while the incident was investigated.

The National Transportation Safety Board and Federal Aviation Administration are investigating the cause of the crash. Officials have not yet determined why the aircraft lost engine thrust.

Coast Guard crews also searched the surrounding waters for wreckage. Officials warned mariners to remain alert for possible debris or pollution in the area.

A Rescue Before a Disaster Became Worse

The pilot’s emergency call, successful ejection and rapid response by military rescue crews allowed him to survive the crash.

While the aircraft was substantially damaged, authorities confirmed that the only person aboard was rescued and taken to hospital for treatment.

Sources

• ABC News — “Pilot rescued after Hawker Hunter plane crashes into Pacific Ocean,” September 23, 2026.
• Los Angeles Times — “’Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!’ Military training jet plunges into ocean off California coast,” September 23, 2026.
• CNN / Scripps News — “Pilot rescued after military training jet crashes off California coast,” September 24, 2026.