Hawker Hunter jet crashes off California coast during training mission

A pilot was rescued by a US Navy crew after a Hawker Hunter fighter jet crashed into the Pacific Ocean off the California coast near Morro Bay on September 22, 2026. The aircraft, registered as N345AX, was operated by the Airborne Tactical Advantage Company (ATAC), a private contractor that provides training support for the US Navy, Marine Corps, and Air Force.

Radio communications captured the pilot issuing a “mayday, mayday, mayday” call, stating, “I have lost thrust in my engine.” Aviation data indicated the aircraft was flying at an altitude of over 32,000 feet before losing signal at approximately 3,425 feet during its descent. The jet had taken off from Point Mugu Naval Air Station to conduct exercises alongside other aircraft.

While the Navy successfully recovered the pilot, the Coast Guard reported that no aircraft wreckage has been located. Authorities have advised boaters to watch for potential debris or pollution in the area. This incident follows a similar crash involving an ATAC Hawker Hunter near Big Sur in October 2025.