A Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft crashed onto the campus of Milestone School and College in Dhaka on Monday afternoon, resulting in the death of at least one person and injuries to numerous others. The tragedy unfolded in the city’s Uttara area, where children were present, sending shockwaves through the local community.
Television footage captured the immediate aftermath, showing flames and smoke billowing from the crash site as bystanders attempted to extinguish the fire. Social media platforms were flooded with videos of panicked students fleeing the scene, highlighting the chaos and fear that gripped the area.
The Bangladesh Army’s public relations office confirmed the aircraft involved was an F-7 BGI belonging to the Air Force. According to a doctor at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, over 50 individuals, including children and adults, were hospitalized with burns. The death toll remains uncertain, with military spokespersons unable to provide a definitive count.
Government Response and Investigation
Muhammad Yunus, head of Bangladesh’s interim government, stated that “necessary measures” would be taken to investigate the cause of the accident and to “ensure all kinds of assistance” to those affected. He acknowledged the profound loss experienced by the Air Force, students, parents, teachers, and staff.
Local newspaper Prothom Alo reported that initial assessments suggested the aircraft crashed onto the roof of the college canteen. The incident has drawn comparisons to a recent aviation disaster in India, where an Air India plane crashed into a medical college hostel in Ahmedabad, resulting in significant casualties.
Comparisons to Recent Aviation Disasters
The Bangladesh crash comes just over a month after the Air India tragedy, which claimed the lives of 241 of the 242 people on board and 19 individuals on the ground. A preliminary report into that crash indicated issues with the fuel switches of the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which lost thrust shortly after takeoff.
“Thrust not achieved… falling… Mayday! Mayday! Mayday!”
The report from India’s Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau highlighted a critical failure in the aircraft’s engine fuel switches, though it did not assign blame to Boeing or the engine manufacturer, GE. The investigation continues to probe whether pilot error or mechanical failure was responsible.
Witness Accounts and Immediate Aftermath
Fire official Lima Khan reported via phone that at least one person had died and four others were injured and transported to the Combined Military Hospital for treatment. Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as students and staff attempted to evacuate the area amidst the chaos.
Firefighters and volunteers worked tirelessly to control the blaze and secure the crash site. The community has rallied to support those affected, with local authorities coordinating relief efforts and offering counseling services to students and families.
Ongoing Investigation and Safety Concerns
As investigators continue to piece together the events leading up to the crash, questions about aviation safety and training protocols have surfaced. The Bangladesh Air Force, alongside international aviation experts, is conducting a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident.
Experts emphasize the importance of rigorous safety checks and training for military aircraft operations, especially in densely populated areas. The incident underscores the need for enhanced safety measures to prevent future tragedies.
The community remains in mourning as they await further updates from authorities. The government has pledged to provide support and resources to those affected, ensuring that the victims and their families receive the assistance they need during this difficult time.
