Dhaka, July 21, (V7N) - A tragic accident unfolded in the capital's Uttara area today as a Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) FT-7 BGI fighter aircraft crashed into a two-storey building of Milestone School and College, killing at least 19 people — including the pilot — and injuring 164 others.

According to a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the jet took off from BAF Base AK Khandaker in Kurmitola at 1:06pm as part of a routine training mission. The aircraft experienced a mechanical failure mid-air, prompting the pilot, Flight Lieutenant Toukir Islam, to attempt a controlled descent away from populated zones.

Despite his efforts, the aircraft lost control and crashed around 1:18pm into the educational institution’s building located in the Diabari area, ISPR confirmed.

Immediate Response and Rescue Efforts

Rescue teams from the Air Force, Army, Police, RAB, and Fire Service & Civil Defence (FSCD) responded promptly, evacuating the injured and securing the site. Helicopters and ambulances transported victims to Combined Military Hospital (CMH) and nearby facilities.

Director General of FSCD Brigadier General Muhammad Jahed informed reporters at the scene that 19 lives were confirmed lost. Over 30 victims are currently receiving treatment at the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, as per institute director Md Nasiruddin.

High-Level Oversight and Support

As the Chief of Air Staff is currently abroad on an official trip, Assistant Air Chief (Administration) and senior BAF officials are overseeing rescue efforts on the ground. Top military and government officials, including the Chief of Army Staff, Principal Staff Officer, and advisers from the interim government, visited the site and hospitals to monitor the situation and ensure comprehensive support.

An emergency hotline (01949-043697) has been set up by the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery for updates and victim assistance. Additional contact numbers have been made available by the government to help families locate missing students and injured individuals.

Furthermore, one metro train coach from the Uttara terminal was reserved to transport the injured from the site to hospitals.

National Mourning Declared

In response to the devastating incident, the government has declared a one-day state mourning to be observed on Tuesday, July 22. National flags will fly at half-mast across all public, private, and autonomous institutions as well as Bangladesh missions abroad.

Special prayers will also be held in mosques, temples, churches, and other religious centers for the deceased and injured.

Investigation Underway

A high-level Air Force inquiry committee has been formed to investigate the mechanical failure and circumstances that led to the crash. The ISPR noted that further technical details would be shared upon completion of the investigation.

Condolences from National Leadership

Professor Dr. Muhammad Yunus, Chief Adviser to the interim government, expressed deep grief over the accident.

“I express deep shock and sorrow over the casualties in the aircraft crash,” he stated in an official release.

Several advisers, including those responsible for Law, Disaster Management, Religious Affairs, and Energy, visited the injured and assured of government assistance for the victims and their families.

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