Post-Takeoff Engine Fire Leads to Aircraft Loss in San Francisco Bay (140966)

Incident Overview and Immediate Aftermath An aircraft experienced a fire in its port auxiliary jet engine shortly after taking off from Alameda Naval Air Station. The incident occurred in the immediate post-takeoff phase of flight, leading to a rapid deterioration of the aircraft's status. The crew initiated an attempt to return to the departure point following the onset of the fire. However, the aircraft became uncontrollable during this maneuver, resulting in a crash into the San Francisco Bay. The crew members were successfully rescued from the water, while the aircraft was declared lost. The event highlights the critical nature of post-takeoff emergencies and the challenges associated with managing in-flight fires in the immediate vicinity of the departure airport.