Archive image: A CMV-22B Osprey tiltrotor from the “Titans” of Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission Squadron (VRM) 30 lands on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68), on December 9, 2023. USS Nimitz is underway conducting routine operations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Emma Burgess.
March 8, 2024 — The U.S. Navy returned its CMV-22B Osprey fleet to flight status March 8, 2024, following NAVAIR’s announcement that issued clearance for the V-22 Osprey to fly.
The Navy is implementing a deliberate, multi-phased, conditions-based approach that will prioritize safety during the CMV-22B Osprey return to flight. Starting immediately, Fleet Logistics Multi-Mission (VRM) Wing will oversee a comprehensive plan that includes enhanced maintenance checks and tailored training to renew aircrew currency and unit readiness.
The Navy has confidence in the analysis by Naval Air Systems Command as the Airworthiness Certification Authority for the V-22 program, and the engineering analysis driving the return to flight decision. Commander, Naval Air Forces remains in close collaboration with key senior leaders across three services, and continue to work to ensure Navy’s pilots and aircrew can fly and operate safely.
V-22 Osprey grounding bulletin
The V-22 Osprey aircraft have been grounded since Dec. 6, 2023. That followed the crash of an Air Force V-22 Osprey off the coast of Japan that killed eight airmen on Nov. 29, 2023.
«This decision follows a meticulous and data-driven approach prioritizing the safety of our aircrews,» a Navy official said. Lifting the grounding means the Navy, Marine Corps and Air Force can return the aircraft to service.
The Navy grounded the aircraft when Air Force officials investigating the Japan crash found «a materiel failure of a V-22 component.» Officials used the time to do a thorough review of the mishap and test risk-mitigation controls.
All of the services worked together to ensure the aircraft is safe, officials said during a call with reporters. They would not identify the component that failed, but they said the processes they put in place will allow a safe return to flight.
The services all have different processes in returning the aircraft to the skies. «Maintenance and procedural changes have been implemented to address the materiel failure that allow for a safe return to flight,» the Naval Air Systems Command official said.
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