Biswabrata Goswami
KHARAGPUR, 13 FEB: An Indian Air Force (IAF) trainer aircraft crashed during a routine training sortie near Kalaikunda airbase in West Midnapore district on Tuesday afternoon. The incident occurred at approximately 3:30 pm at Diasa village near the Kalaikunda Air Force Base.
According to a statement issued by the IAF, the aircraft involved was a Hawk trainer. Both pilots onboard the aircraft successfully ejected and are reported to be safe. Thankfully, there have been no casualties or damage to civilian property as a result of the crash, an IAF statement said.
The precise cause of the accident is yet to be determined, and the Indian Air Force has initiated a Court of Inquiry to investigate the circumstances leading to the crash.
Reports indicate that the aircraft took off from the Kalaikunda Air Force Base before encountering difficulties and crashing into a vacant area near Kharagpur. Prompt response from air force and police rescue teams ensured that the situation was swiftly brought under control.
Upon receiving news of the incident, Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee reached out to the police superintendent of West Medinipur and other district officials to coordinate efforts and ensure the safety and well-being of all involved.
The IAF, along with relevant authorities, continues to monitor the situation closely as investigations into the crash proceed. Further updates will be provided as additional information becomes available.
Tags: #IAF #Hawk #TrainerAircraft #Kalaikunda #Airbase
