Mechanical Fault Blamed for Air Force Jet Crash in Dhaka; Investigation Committee Formed

Masum Billah | Dhaka | July 21

A Bangladesh Air Force training fighter jet crashed into the Milestone School and College building in the Diabari area of Uttara, Dhaka, on Monday afternoon, killing 19 people and injuring at least 164 others. Among the deceased was the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Md. Taukir Islam.

According to a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the FT-7 BGI fighter jet encountered a mechanical fault shortly after taking off from the Bangladesh Air Force Base AK Khandaker in Kurmitola at 1:06 PM as part of a routine training mission.

“Despite the mechanical failure, the pilot attempted to steer the aircraft away from densely populated areas to prevent mass casualties,” the statement said. “Unfortunately, the aircraft crashed into a two-story building of Milestone School and College, leading to a tragic and unexpected disaster.”

The crash occurred while classes and coaching sessions were underway, resulting in severe casualties, many of whom are believed to be children and staff members.

Emergency response teams, including the Bangladesh Army, Air Force, Police, RAB, and Fire Service, were deployed immediately to the scene. Rescue operations have been ongoing since the crash, with helicopters and ambulances transporting the injured to the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) and other nearby facilities.

The ISPR added that the Air Force is “deeply shocked by the unfortunate incident” and is extending all possible assistance, including emergency medical treatment for the injured.

As the Air Force Chief is currently abroad on an official visit, the Assistant Air Chief (Administration) is supervising rescue operations on the ground, along with senior officials from the Armed Forces Division and other government bodies.

A high-level investigation committee has been formed by the Bangladesh Air Force to determine the exact cause of the crash. While initial indications point to a mechanical malfunction, the full details will be disclosed after the investigation concludes.

The presence of senior civil and military officials at the site underscored the gravity of the incident. Authorities have pledged transparency in the investigation and support for the affected families.

This tragic event has raised fresh concerns about safety protocols in military training exercises conducted near densely populated urban areas.

National mourning has been declared for Tuesday, with flags to fly at half-mast in all government, semi-government, and autonomous institutions, including educational establishments and Bangladeshi missions abroad. Special prayers will be held across the country for those killed and injured in the disaster.

Further updates are expected as the investigation progresses.

Also Read: Bangladesh Air Force Plane Crash Kills 20; Nation in Mourning