Chennai: An Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft crashed near Tambaram in Chennai’s Chengalpattu district on Thursday afternoon. The aircraft, a Pilatus PC-7 Mk II, was on a routine training mission when it went down. Fortunately, the pilot ejected safely and was unharmed, and no damage to civilian property was reported.

Videos shared on social media showed debris from the aircraft scattered across the ground, with local residents gathering at the scene to witness the aftermath. The IAF quickly confirmed the incident and emphasized that there were no casualties on the ground.

“An Indian Air Force PC-7 Mk II trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission and crashed at about 1425 hrs near Tambaram, Chennai, today. The pilot ejected safely, and no damage to civil property has been reported. A Court of Inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of accident,” the IAF said in an official statement posted on X.

The PC-7 Mk II is primarily used for basic training of fighter pilots and is equipped with modern avionics to prepare trainees for frontline aircraft. While such training missions are generally routine, incidents like this are rare. The IAF has ordered a formal investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash, whether technical, mechanical, or human error.

Local authorities coordinated with the IAF to secure the crash site, ensuring safety for residents and facilitating debris removal. The Court of Inquiry is expected to examine flight data, maintenance records, and eyewitness accounts to reach a conclusion.

The pilot’s successful ejection highlights the efficiency of the safety systems on board, which are designed to ensure survival in emergencies. The incident underscores the inherent risks faced by military aviators even during routine training exercises, emphasizing the importance of rigorous safety protocols.

The IAF has maintained that no further incidents are anticipated and reassured the public that all precautionary measures have been taken. Updates on the investigation’s findings are expected in the coming weeks.

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