A US Marine Corps F/A-18 Hornet fighter jet near San Diego on Thursday, leaving the pilot dead.

The unit said the pilot was the only person aboard.

"Search and rescue recovered the U.S. Marine Corps pilot who has been confirmed deceased at the site. The pilot was the only person aboard the aircraft. With a heavy heart, our condolences go to the Marine’s family during this time," the US Marine Corps said in a statement.

An investigation into the incident is currently underway.