Bangladesh Air Force Jet Crash Kills 27, Including Schoolchildren, in Dhaka Tragedy

A Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) training aircraft crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka’s Uttara suburb on Monday, killing at least 27 people, most of them schoolchildren, and injuring over 170 others. The tragedy has triggered national mourning and renewed scrutiny over the military’s use of ageing aircraft.

The Chinese-made F‑7 BGI jet had taken off from Kurmitola Air Base at 1:06 p.m. on a routine training mission. Moments later, the pilot reported a mechanical failure and attempted an emergency maneuver. Despite efforts to divert the aircraft away from populated zones, it slammed into the school compound, igniting a massive blaze and causing structural collapse.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic and chaos as flames engulfed the school building. “People were screaming, running, trying to escape the smoke,” said one survivor. Rescue teams worked through the afternoon to recover victims and evacuate survivors. The deceased include 25 students, one teacher, and the pilot.

Officials said over 78 of the injured remain in critical condition, many with severe burns. The teacher killed reportedly died while helping students flee the burning classrooms.

The government has declared a national day of mourning, with flags flown at half-mast and prayers held across the country. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina expressed deep sorrow and promised full support to affected families.

This is not the first time the F‑7 BGI has been at the centre of controversy. Based on the older Soviet MiG-21 design, the aircraft has a history of mechanical issues and crashes, raising questions about its continued use in training missions.

The Air Force has launched a high-level inquiry into the cause of the crash. Interim Head of State Muhammad Yunus has pledged accountability and assured that a detailed investigation will be conducted to prevent future incidents.

Meanwhile, student protests have erupted in Dhaka, demanding compensation for victims, safety reforms in military aviation, and the decommissioning of outdated fighter jets. The public outcry underscores the gravity of the incident and its impact on a grieving nation.