A dramatic crash into the waters of San Diego Bay ended without tragedy Thursday evening when a U.S. Navy MH-60R Sea Hawk helicopter went down during a routine training session. In a stroke of luck, all six crew members aboard were rescued and reported to be in stable following the incident. The crash occurred at approximately 6:40 p.m. off the coast of Coronado, as confirmed by Navy Cmdr. Beth Teach in a statement obtained by the San Diego Union-Tribune.
The helicopter, belonging to Helicopter Maritime Strike 41 squadron, was engaged in a training exercise when it descended into the bay. A safety boat was strategically present to quickly aid in the rescue, a factor that might have helped to significantly lower any risk of casualty. Federal Fire Department San Diego personnel were also pivotal, swiftly pulling the crew from the chilly waters to ensure their survival, as Cmdr. Teach details to NBC San Diego.
Once ashore, the crew members received medical attention, undergoing a thorough evaluation as part of the standard protocol for such events. Although visibly shaken, there were no immediate reports of serious injuries among the crew, which included Navy pilots and aircrew from the squadron that trains for anti-submarine and surface warfare missions using the Sea Hawk platform.
Investigations into what caused the helicopter to crash are underway. The Navy describes the MH-60R Sea Hawk as their primary helicopter for anti-submarine and surface warfare operations. This aircraft has been a staple in the fleet since 2006. Relics of a peaceful sinking in military practice, the recent event highlights the inherent risks even in controlled training scenarios. The squadron, a Fleet Replacement Squadron, is known for training Naval Aviators and Naval Aircrewmen to operate and fight with the technologically advanced MH-60R, according to Teach's interview with the San Diego Union-Tribune.
No further details about the crash or the crew's medical condition were disclosed in the immediate aftermath. The incident will undoubtedly be scrutinized as the Navy seeks to prevent similar occurrences.
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