NAS Whidbey Growler makes emergency landing

An EA-18G Growler from Whidbey Island Naval Air Station made an emergency landing in Eastern Washington on Wednesday.

An EA-18G Growler from Whidbey Island Naval Air Station made an emergency landing in Eastern Washington on Wednesday.

“During a routine training flight, a caution light illuminated in the cockpit of the EA-18G signaling the pilot to make a precautionary landing as soon as possible,” said Naval Air Station Whidbey Island Public Affairs Officer Mike Welding. “The pilot made a safe, normal landing at Grant County Airport in Moses Lake.”

Greg Becken, port security manager, said the pilot called Moses Lake airport traffic controllers at about 1:03 p.m. and was cleared to make the emergency landing, according to Grant County news source iFiberone.com

Becken said Moses Lake firefighters responded to the aircraft as soon as it landed, but no fire was detected.

“There is no apparent damage to the aircraft and no injuries to the flight crew,” Welding said.

The source of the caution light is being investigated by Navy Maintenance personnel who will ensure the aircraft is fully ready before it is returned to Whidbey Island, Welding said, but there is no specific timetable for the aircraft’s return.

“The Navy appreciates the support of the staff at Grant County Airport for their assistance during the precautionary landing and the ongoing maintenance.”