In a tragic incident, two Indian Air Force pilots lost their lives in a plane crash in Telangana’s Medak district. The unfortunate event occurred during a routine training sortie from the Air Force Academy (AFA) in Hyderabad. The aircraft involved was identified as a Pilatus PC 7 Mk II, a single-engine training aircraft commonly used for basic pilot training in the Indian Air Force.
Both a trainer and a trainee pilot were on board the aircraft when the crash took place. The aircraft had taken off from AFA, and the crash site was reported in Medak district. Despite immediate efforts for rescue and recovery, the Indian Air Force confirmed that both pilots sustained fatal injuries in the accident.
The Indian Air Force expressed deep regret over the incident, issuing a statement on X (formerly Twitter): “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.” The statement also mentioned that a court of inquiry has been ordered to investigate the cause of the accident.
The Pilatus PC 7 Mk II is a key component in the training curriculum for IAF pilots, providing them with foundational skills and experiences. The tragic incident has prompted the Indian Air Force to initiate a thorough investigation to determine the factors contributing to the crash.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed his condolences to the families of the deceased pilots. In a statement, he said, “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.”
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. No damage to any civil life or property has been…
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) December 4, 2023
The loss of the two pilots is a somber moment for the Indian Armed Forces, and the investigation will play a crucial role in understanding the circumstances leading to the crash. The incident underscores the risks associated with military training operations, and the entire nation mourns the untimely demise of these brave individuals who dedicated their lives to serving the country.