PRAYAGRAJ – An Indian Air Force training aircraft crashed during a routine flight in Prayagraj on Wednesday, Indian media reported. Rescue teams were immediately dispatched to the site.
According to initial reports, the aircraft developed a technical fault while on a scheduled training mission. The pilot lost control, and the aircraft crashed into a nearby pond, getting completely destroyed.
Teams from the Indian Air Force, local administration, and emergency services launched search and recovery operations. Security forces cordoned off the area to ensure public safety while authorities assessed the situation.
Eyewitnesses described hearing a loud, explosion-like sound just before the aircraft descended rapidly into the water. The sudden crash caused brief panic among nearby residents.
The aircraft involved was reportedly a two-seater microlite conducting a routine sortie near K P College ground in George Town. Defence sources told PTI that both the pilot and the crew member onboard are safe, as the aircraft’s recovery system was successfully activated.
Some early reports suggested injuries to the pilots, but officials clarified that there is no confirmed information about casualties. Final details will be shared after the rescue and recovery operation is completed.
The Indian Air Force has confirmed that a formal investigation has begun to determine the cause of the crash. Officials said technical assessments and site evidence will be reviewed thoroughly as part of the inquiry.
This incident follows months after a fatal crash of a Tejas fighter jet at the Dubai Airshow in November 2025, where IAF pilot Namansh Syal lost his life. That crash had led to a court of inquiry and renewed focus on aviation safety in India.
In other news read more about India withdraws Diplomats’ Families from Bangladesh Over Security Concerns
Authorities emphasized that ensuring the safety of personnel and aircraft remains a top priority for the Indian Air Force, and lessons from this incident will be incorporated into future training protocols.
