U.S. Marine Corps F-35B crashes at MCAS Miramar after pilot ejects during San Diego flightline mishap

By Hannah Miller (Defence Industry Europe)

Air |
U.S. Marine Corps F-35B crashes at MCAS Miramar after pilot ejects during San Diego flightline mishap

Photo: U.S. Marine Corps.

A U.S. Marine Corps F-35B Lightning II crashed at Marine Corps Air Station Miramar in San Diego. The pilot ejected and was taken to a local medical facility in stable condition.

The incident occurred on the flightline at approximately 10 a.m. local time. The aircraft was assigned to Marine Aircraft Group 11, part of the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.

The Marine Corps said the pilot was receiving evaluation and treatment for non-life-threatening injuries. Emergency personnel responded immediately after the aircraft mishap.

Military teams secured the site and began the initial response process. Officials have not disclosed the cause of the crash or details of the flight.

“Our primary focus remains on supporting emergency teams at the scene, ensuring thorough site security, and conducting an exhaustive review into the circumstances surrounding this aircraft mishap,” a base public affairs officer said. The Marine Corps said more information would be released when available.

The F-35B is the short takeoff and vertical landing variant of the F-35 Lightning II. Marine Corps units operate the aircraft from amphibious assault ships, expeditionary sites and conventional airfields.

Marine Aircraft Group 11 is based at MCAS Miramar in Southern California. The group operates under the 3rd Marine Aircraft Wing.