A Pakistan Air Force trainer aircraft crashed near Mardan during a routine training flight on Monday, resulting in the martyrdom of two military officers, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The military’s media wing confirmed that the aircraft was conducting a regular training mission when it went down near Mardan. Both pilots on board lost their lives in the tragic incident while performing their professional duties.
The martyrs have been identified as Flight Lieutenant Muhammad Qasim Abdullah of the Pakistan Air Force and Lieutenant Taha Abbasi of the Pakistan Navy. According to the ISPR, the officers embraced martyrdom during the crash.
Following the incident, Air Headquarters ordered an immediate investigation and constituted a board of inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident. The inquiry team has been tasked with examining all aspects of the crash and establishing the circumstances that led to the aircraft going down during the routine training sortie.
The ISPR further stated that Air Headquarters has directed a comprehensive investigation into the tragedy. Officials will review technical, operational, and other relevant factors as part of the inquiry before releasing any findings regarding the cause of the accident.
Meanwhile, Syed Asim Munir expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the two officers. The ISPR said the Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, along with all ranks of the Pakistan Armed Forces, mourned the tragic deaths and extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families. The martyrdom of Flight Lieutenant Muhammad Qasim Abdullah and Lieutenant Taha Abbasi has been described as a profound loss for the nation’s armed forces.
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