Fighter jet blown overboard from Norfolk-based aircraft carrier

NAPLES, Italy (WAVY) — An F/A-18 Super Hornet was blown off the flight deck of the Norfolk-based USS Harry S. Truman (CVN 75), according to the Navy.

The accident happened on July 8 in the Mediterranean Sea while the carrier was conducting a replenishment-at-sea. Navy officials said the incident happened during unexpected heavy weather.

All personnel aboard the ship are accounted for, however, one Sailor received minor injuries, the Navy confirmed. The Sailor is expected to make a full recovery.

An article in The Navy Times says the Navy is reviewing its options for recovering the jet.

Officials say the carrier remains mission capable. The F/A-18 Super Hornet is manufactured by Boeings.

The incident is still under investigation.

The Harry S Truman Carrier Strike Group (HSTCSG) departed Norfolk on December 1 on a regularly scheduled deployment. Captain Gavin Duff became the 13^th Commanding Officer of USS Harry S. Truman in August 2021.

Congressman Rob Wittman (R-VA 1st District) called the incident “unfortunate” and wished the injured sailor a quick recovery while waiting for the Navy’s comprehensive investigation regarding the incident.

“I encourage the Navy to work swiftly to recover the Super Hornet,” said Wittman.