The operational pause will allow both Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and Boeing engineers time to investigate the accident
Following an on-deck emergency experienced at NAS Whidbey Island by an EA-18G, the U.S. Navy has temporarily suspended flight operations for the Super Hornet and Growler.
As reported by the service press release in fact a U. S. Navy E/A-18G jet assigned to Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 132 Scorpions experienced an on-deck emergency at Naval Air Station (NAS) Whidbey Island at approximately 1100 (PST), on Dec. 16, 2016.
The aircraft was damaged and both aircrews sustained injuries and were transported by a NAS Whidbey Island SAR helicopter to Harborview Medical Center for evaluation. The cause of the emergency is under investigation.
Naval Air Forces have temporarily suspended flight operations for all F/A-18 E/F Super Hornets and E/A-18G Growlers as a safety precaution since they share common aircraft systems, with exceptions made on a case-by-case basis dependent upon operational requirements. The operational pause will allow both Naval Air Systems Command (NAVAIR) and Boeing engineers time to investigate the incident.
Source: U.S. Navy; Photo by Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class John Philip Wagner, Jr. and Seaman Weston A. Mohr / U.S. Navy