Pilots die as US Navy F/A-18F Super Hornet crashes off Florida

Two US Navy pilots died after the F/A-18F Super Hornet they flew crashed on final approach to Boca Chica Field, Naval Air Station, Key West, Florida on March 14.

The navy said search and rescue crews recovered both the pilot and weapons systems officer from the water approximately one mile east of the runway.

Both were taken by ambulance to Lower Keys Medical Center and were declared deceased several hours later.

Local media reports say the aircraft was landing on one engine and reportedly caught fire before crashing.

The US Navy said the cause of the mishap is currently under investigation adding that identification of the aviators is withheld until their families are notified, as per policy.

The F/A-18F is a dual-seated aircraft assigned to Strike Fighter Squadron Two One Three (VFA-213) based at Naval Air Station Oceana and was conducting a training flight.