Officials: F-35 goes missing near North Charleston; pilot hospitalized after ejecting
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Military officials are working in coordination with the Federal Aviation Administration after an F-35 went missing following a "mishap" near North Charleston on Sunday, September 17.
"Based on the jet’s last-known position and in coordination with the FAA, we are focusing our attention north of JB Charleston, around Lake Moultrie and Lake Marion," Joint Base Charleston said via X, formerly known as Twitter.
According to Joint Base Charleston, the aircraft is a F-35B Lighting II jet from Marine Attack Training Squadron (VMFAT). It was stationed at Marine Corps Air Station Beaufort. Both bases are working together to locate the aircraft.
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The pilot ejected safely and was transported to a local medical center in stable condition, according to Joint Base Charleston.
A spokesperson for Joint Base Charleston confirms the aircraft was placed in autopilot before the pilot ejected.
Anyone with information on the F-35's whereabouts is asked to contact the Base Defense Operations Center at 843-963-3600.
Charleston County Sheriff's Office officials Monday told residents not to touch or move any piece aircraft they may find. Instead, they said call the number above.
On Sunday night, South Carolina Rep. Nancy Mace took to Twitter with questions.