WRIGHTSVILLE BEACH, N.C. – A pilot who crashed off Wrightsville Beach Friday afternoon is now safely recovering at home, according to a news release from Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point.
The AV-8B Harrier pilot was part of Marine Attack Squadron 542, Marine Aircraft Group 14, 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing.
The pilot ejected from the jet around 5:05 p.m. He inflated a personal flotation device and was also able to inflate and board a life raft until he was rescued.
An H-60 Seahawk from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron 22 picked him around 5:28 p.m.
The H-60 is based out of Norfolk. They are currently operating off of the USS Wasp in support of the 22nd Marine Expeditionary Unit.
The incident is under investigation. Aircraft recovery efforts are currently being coordinated.
