Air Force Trainer Aircraft Crash in Telangana Claims Lives of Two Pilots in Tragic Incident

In a tragic incident, two Indian Air Force pilots lost their lives today as a Pilatus PC 7 Mk II trainer aircraft crashed in Telangana’s Medak district. The fatal mishap occurred during a routine training sortie after the aircraft took off from the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Hyderabad.

The Indian Air Force officially confirmed the devastating news, stating, “A Pilatus PC 7 Mk II aircraft met with an accident today morning during a routine training sortie from AFA, Hyderabad. It is with deep regret that the IAF confirms both pilots onboard the aircraft sustained fatal injuries,” in a statement on X (formerly Twitter).

A trainee #Aircraft of the Indian Air Force (#IAF) crashed in Ravelli village in Toopran mandal of #Medak dist, after took off from #Dundigal #IAF Academy. After the crash it was completely gutted in the #fire. Information on casualties is awaited.#IAF #PlaneCrash #Telangana pic.twitter.com/xarneohqkQ

— maje Lene hai (@HaiMaje) December 4, 2023

The ill-fated aircraft, a single-engine type integral to the basic training curriculum for IAF pilots, carried both a trainer and a trainee pilot, both of whom tragically perished in the crash.

To unravel the circumstances leading to the accident, the Indian Air Force promptly ordered a court of inquiry. The Pilatus PC 7 Mk II, known for its role in shaping IAF pilot fundamentals, now stands at the center of investigations.

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Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his heartfelt condolences to the grieving families, saying, “Anguished by this accident near Hyderabad. It is deeply saddening that two pilots have lost their lives. In this tragic hour, my thoughts are with the bereaved families.”

As the nation mourns the loss of these brave air warriors, the inquiry seeks to provide clarity on the incident, offering insights into the cause while honoring the service and sacrifice of the fallen pilots.