Two naval aviators ejected from an EA-18G Growler electronic warfare aircraft after an arresting gear failure during aircraft recovery aboard the US Navy Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Dwight D. Eisenhower off Virginia on Monday, September 28.
The mishap occurred at approximately 18:18 local time, US Fleet Forces Command said in a September 29 statement. Search and rescue personnel from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron Seven deployed aboard Eisenhower recovered both aviators and returned them safely to the ship.
Eight sailors underwent assessment by the ship’s medical staff. One sailor was taken by air to a hospital in the Norfolk area for care of injuries that were not considered life-threatening.
The two aviators and two other sailors injured on the flight deck were also flown to Naval Medical Center Portsmouth for additional evaluation.
The Growler was attached to Electronic Attack Squadron 130. Both aviators were assigned to Carrier Air Wing Three, which was conducting flight operations aboard Eisenhower.
“Our immediate priority is ensuring all personnel involved receive the care and support they need.” US Fleet Forces Command said. “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.”
In early April 2026, Eisenhower suffered an onboard fire while she was undergoing scheduled maintenance at Norfolk Naval Shipyard in Virginia. A navy spokesperson had confirmed the incident to USNI News, saying that the "small fire" was successfully contained and extinguished by the ship's crew and the yard personnel present.
Three of the carrier's crew suffered minor injuries but were treated by the ship's medical team and were later cleared to return to duty.