What Happened After the IAF Fighter Jet Crash in Churu?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Two pilots killed in IAF Jaguar jet crash.
- IAF has initiated a court of inquiry.
- This marks the third crash of a Jaguar in five months.
- Local authorities are conducting relief operations.
- Concerns raised about operational safety of aging fleet.
Churu, July 9 (NationPress) The Chief Minister of Rajasthan, Bhajan Lal Sharma, along with Governor Haribhau Bagde, has expressed profound condolences following a tragic incident where an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft crashed in the Ratangarh region of Churu district on Wednesday, leading to the untimely death of two pilots.
In a message shared on his official X account, Chief Minister Sharma conveyed his sorrow over this heartbreaking event, stating: "I have received the unfortunate news regarding the crash of an IAF plane in the Ratangarh area of Churu district. Since the moment of the incident, local administration has been on high alert, with officials instructed to commence relief and rescue operations. May the departed souls find eternal peace, and may strength be bestowed upon their grieving families. Om Shanti!"
Governor Haribhau Bagde also extended his sympathies and prayed for peace for the departed in this tragic event involving the IAF aircraft.
Earlier in the day, the IAF expressed their deep sorrow regarding the loss of life and offered their condolences to the families of the deceased pilots.
This incident marks the third crash of a Jaguar aircraft in India within the last five months, raising questions about the safety of the aging fleet.
More information will be provided after the official inquiry into the crash concludes.
Earlier on Wednesday, the IAF initiated a court of inquiry following the crash of its Jaguar fighter jet during a regular training flight close to Bhanuda village in the Rajaldesar police station area of Churu district at 12:40 p.m.
Regrettably, both the pilot and co-pilot lost their lives in this incident.
As per officials, the aircraft was a two-seater Jaguar trainer that had launched from the Suratgarh airbase near Sri Ganganagar.
The crash site was littered with debris scattered across a broad area.
Churu Superintendent of Police Jai Yadav confirmed the fatalities, with human remains discovered near the wreckage of the plane.
Initial reports indicate that the pilots could not eject due to a technical malfunction.
Local residents reported hearing a loud sound followed by a significant explosion.
An army helicopter was also seen landing on a nearby road as part of the immediate response and rescue efforts.
The IAF confirmed the incident in an official statement: "An IAF Jaguar Trainer aircraft met with an accident during a routine training mission and crashed near Churu in Rajasthan today. Both pilots suffered fatal injuries. No civilian property damage has been reported. A Court of Inquiry has been established to determine the cause of the accident."