What happened
During a scheduled training exercise involving an aerial attack on a submarine, an aircraft crashed into the sea. The flight originated from Quonset Point NAS and proceeded toward the waters off Long Island. Approximately one hour after takeoff, the pilot experienced significant difficulties while maneuvering. The aircraft subsequently lost control and impacted the ocean surface roughly 30 miles east of the Montauk Point lighthouse.
There were seven fatalities among the crew members on board during the accident. No survivors were reported from the flight.
Findings
Investigations into the incident determined that the loss of control was triggered by an engine explosion while the aircraft was in flight.