Heartbreaking News For F/A-18C Hornet Pilot – Marines Halt All Flight Operations
Grounded.
The United States Marines made the announcement that all flight operations will be halted for a 24-hour period. This news comes in the wake of two F/A-18C Hornets that crashed within the past week. One crash resulted in the death of Major Richard Norton of the Marine Fighter Attack Squad. The other accident occurred during a training mission in Northern Nevada, the pilot ejected and survived with non-fatal injuries. Both jets bear the logo of the Red Devils Squadron stationed at MCAS Miramar located in San Diego, California. In addition to these crashes, the Squadron suffered another accident last year after returning from the Middle East in October.
“[Richard Norton] was one of the best and brightest Hornet pilots our nation had to offer – our thoughts and prayers go out to his family.”
– Colonel William Swan
After the 24-hour period of observance, normal flight operations will resume. The Marines have mentioned that 70% of F/A-18C Hornets are unable to fly in their current condition. Investigators are looking into the incidents for details on what caused the jets to crash.
