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Search and rescue operations are underway around 60 miles off the coast of San Diego to rescue five military personnel who were onboard an MH-60S helicopter. The helicopter crashed into the ocean. It is believed the helicopter was “operating on the deck before crashing into the sea”.

One crew member has been rescued following the crash and has been transported ashore and is expected to survive the incident.

Injuries to three of the sailors from the Lincoln were not serious, and they are being treated aboard the ship.

Two others had more severe injuries and were taken ashore for treatment.

The US Third Fleet said in an news release: “The Sailor who was rescued from the aircraft was transported ashore and is in stable condition.

“The aircraft, from Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 8, was operating on deck before crashing into the sea.

“Five additional Sailors aboard Abraham Lincoln suffered injuries in the incident and are in stable condition.

“Two of the five Abraham Lincoln Sailors were transported ashore for treatment, while three of the five Abraham Lincoln Sailors had minimal injuries and remain aboard the ship.

“An investigation into the cause of the incident is underway.”

The US Navy’s Pacific Fleet added: “An MH-60S helicopter embarked aboard USS Abraham Lincoln (CVN 72) crashed into the sea while conducting routine flight operations approximately 60 nautical miles off the coast of San Diego at 4:30 p.m. PST, Aug. 31.

“Search and rescue operations are ongoing with multiple Coast Guard and Navy air and surface assets.”

Military officials said the 64-foot aircraft, which weighs more than seven tonnes when empty, crashed during “routine flight operations”.

The helicopter is assigned to USS Abrahan Lincoln, a Nimitz-class aircraft carrier at Naval Air Station North Island, on Coronado.

The MH-60S is an aircraft that typically carries a crew of around four and is used in combat support missions and humanitarian disaster relief and search and rescue.

According to NBC San Diego, an investigation of the incident is underway.

More to follow…

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