A Bangladesh air force plane crashed into a crowded college campus in Dhaka on Monday afternoon, leaving at least 19 people dead and over 50 injured. The F-7 BGI training aircraft struck the Milestone School and College in the Uttara neighbourhood at approximately 1 pm (07:00 GMT), during class hours, according to local officials and witnesses.
Among the deceased were primarily students, some as young as 9 years old. Hospital authorities confirmed that more than 50 victims, including children and school staff, sustained severe burns and injuries. Firefighters arrived swiftly, spraying water on the flaming wreckage lodged in the side of the school building. The impact tore through the structure’s iron grills and left a gaping hole in the wall.
This tragic event adds to growing concerns about Bangladesh air force jet crashes, raising questions about flight safety standards and aircraft maintenance. The school was in session when the crash occurred, and dozens of terrified students were rushed to nearby hospitals for emergency treatment.
Rescue, Medical Response, and Government Action Underway
Dr. Bidhan Sarker confirmed a third-grade student died on arrival. Three others, aged 12, 14, and 40, were critically injured. “The scene was chaotic, and several students suffered traumatic injuries,” he said.
Bangladesh’s interim Prime Minister Muhammad Yunus expressed deep sorrow and promised a full investigation into the accident. “Necessary measures will be taken to determine the cause of the crash and prevent future tragedies,” Yunus said. “The loss suffered by the air force, students, parents, and staff is beyond repair.”
In response to the Bangladesh plane crash incident, the government activated an emergency hotline through the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery to assist families of the victims. The Bangladesh Red Crescent Society called for blood donations. They also requested medical support for the injured.
Concerns Grow as Air Force Jet Crashes in Bangladesh Continue
This latest tragedy adds to a series of recent air force jet crashes in Bangladesh, raising alarm over aviation safety within the military training system. Aviation analysts point to aging aircraft and limited pilot training hours as contributing factors. The F-7 BGI jet involved in the crash is a Chinese-built model used worldwide. It has faced criticism before due to a high failure rate.
Experts warn that Bangladesh air force jet crashes have been occurring with increasing frequency over the past decade. The current crash has prompted both national and international observers to call for transparent investigations and accountability measures.
Monday’s crash occurred just weeks after a devastating aviation accident in neighbouring India. An Air India plane crashed into a medical college hostel in Ahmedabad, killing 241 passengers and 19 people on the ground. That incident, considered the worst aviation disaster in a decade, highlights growing regional concerns surrounding aircraft safety and crash prevention.
As Bangladesh air force plane crashes continue to make headlines, public pressure mounts for systemic reform. Experts and advocacy groups now demand safety audits, pilot retraining, and aircraft fleet reviews.
The current Bangladesh plane crash incident is a tragic reminder of serious safety concerns. It highlights the urgent need for stronger oversight in both military and civil aviation sectors.
