IAF plane crashes in Tamil Nadu's Tambaram, pilot ejects safely; inquiry ordered

Tambaram (The Uttam Hindu): An Indian Air Force (IAF) Pilatus PC-7 MK-II trainer aircraft crashed near the Tambaram Air Force Station in Tamil Nadu at around 2 pm today. The aircraft was on a routine training mission. Fortunately, the pilot ejected safely and showed presence of mind. The Air Force has immediately ordered a Court of Inquiry to investigate the accident.

According to Air Force sources, the Pilatus trainer aircraft took off from Tambaram Air Force Station at

around 1:45 pm for a routine training sortie. These aircraft are used to teach basic flying skills to new pilots in the Air Force.

A few minutes after takeoff, around 2 p.m., the plane experienced a suspected technical problem. The pilot attempted an emergency landing, but the plane lost control and crashed into the ground.

The pilot's bravery saved his life. Locals and Air Force rescue teams arrived at the scene immediately after the accident. Locals heard a loud noise and saw a plume of smoke. Fortunately, the plane did not catch fire.

An Air Force official said the pilot safely ejected from the aircraft following emergency procedures. He suffered minor injuries and was immediately treated. There was no loss of life or property on the ground in the accident.

Air Force Headquarters has taken the accident seriously, ordering an investigation. A senior officer said, "The pilot is safe, which is a huge relief for us. A court of inquiry has been set up to determine the exact cause of the accident."

This team of experts will examine the plane's flight data recorder (black box) and parts recovered from the crash site to determine whether the accident occurred due to technical fault, weather disturbance or any other reason.

It is noteworthy that the Swiss-made Pilatus PC-7 aircraft have been part of the Indian Air Force fleet since 2005 and are considered to be very reliable trainer aircraft.