Bangladesh Air Force Jet Crash in Dhaka Kills 27, Dozens Injured

Report by “Safarti Tarjuman” International News Desk

DHAKA — A Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft crashed into the Milestone School and College campus in the capital Dhaka, killing at least 27 people and injuring 88 others, including children, officials confirmed Tuesday.

The incident occurred at 1:06 p.m. local time on Monday during what was described as a routine training flight. The aircraft — an F-7 BGI fighter jet, part of China’s Chengdu J-7 family — reportedly experienced mechanical failure shortly after takeoff from Kurmitola Airbase.

Eyewitnesses described a devastating scene as the jet smashed into a building on the school campus, causing explosions and fires. Rescue teams from the Bangladesh military and civil authorities were quickly dispatched.

“It’s a national tragedy. We’ve lost innocent lives, including our Air Force personnel,” said Sayedur Rahman, Special Assistant to the Chief Health Adviser.

Of the 88 injured, most are being treated for severe burn injuries across multiple hospitals in Dhaka. Among the deceased is the pilot of the aircraft, according to a military spokesperson.

In response to the catastrophe, the Bangladeshi government has declared a national day of mourning. Flags were lowered to half-mast, and special prayers were held in mosques, temples, churches, and other places of worship throughout the country.

The F-7 BGI, a modernized version of the Chinese-made J-7 fighter, was acquired by Bangladesh in 2011, with deliveries completed by 2013. It is used primarily for pilot training missions.

A high-level investigation committee has been established by the military to determine the exact cause of the malfunction. Preliminary assessments suggest a critical mechanical failure, though no further details have been disclosed.

This accident follows closely on the heels of a separate aviation disaster in Ahmedabad, India, where an Air India jet crashed into a college hostel, claiming 260 lives — the deadliest air accident in over a decade.