At approximately 6:18 p.m. EDT on Sept. 28, a mishap occurred during aircraft recovery operations aboard the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower (CVN 69) off the coast of Virginia. Two Naval aviators assigned to Carrier Air Wing (CVW) three subsequently ejected from their aircraft and recovered by search-and-rescue personnel.
Both aviators were safely returned to the ship and are being evaluated by medical personnel. Four shipboard personnel were also injured during the mishap and are receiving medical care. One Sailor is being transported to a Norfolk-area hospital for treatment of non-life-threatening injuries.
Our immediate priority is ensuring all personnel involved receive the care and support they need. Carrier crews regularly train for emergencies and unexpected situations during flight operations, and that training enabled the crew to respond quickly and safely.
The cause of the mishap is under investigation. Updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.