Military works to recover Harrier jet that crashed off Wrightsville Beach

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — Military officials have begun efforts to recover a Harrier jet that crashed off of Wrightsville Beach almost two weeks ago.

According to a release, the U.S. Navy’s Mobile Diving and Salvage Unit 2, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group 2, is taking the lead to recover the 2nd Marine Aircraft Wing AV-8B Harrier Jet that crashed on Friday, May 6.

Officials say the Harrier was not carrying weapons when it crashed. Marine Aircraft Group 14 has requested that the entire jet be recovered, but they don’t know how long that will take.

Navy divers have conducted a preliminary survey of the scene and did not find any fuel or fluid leakage. Navy divers perform a variety of diving salvage operations and special duties around the world. In the case of recovery efforts, they specialize in locating and retrieving wreckage as well as clearing harbor and waterways, underwater repairs, and salvage operations in all environments.

Officials tell us the Harrier was the first VSTOL-capable jet in the Marine inventory. That means the jet has the ability to hover like a helicopter and then quickly accelerate forward to almost supersonic speeds, allowing for flexibility on the battlefield.

The cause of the crash is still under investigation.

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