An F/A-18F Super Hornet crashed on final approach to Boca Chica Field, Naval Air Station, Key West, Florida at approximately 4:30 p.m. EDT, March 14.

Search and rescue crews were notified shortly after the crash where they recovered both the pilot and weapons systems officer from the water approximately one mile east of the runway. Both were taken by ambulance to Lower Keys Medical Center.

Both aviators were later declared dead by US Navy.

According to a local photographer, Barbie Wilson, who happened to be on the scene, the plane rolled and exploded midair before crashing.


The aircraft came to rest inverted in the shallow waters.

The F/A-18F is a dual-seated aircraft assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron Two One Three (VFA-213) based at Naval Air Station Oceana and was conducting a training flight.