Two Pilots Injured After RAF Training Jet Crashes in Wales
The Hawk T2 aircraft experienced an issue shortly after takeoff from RAF Valley, leading to the pilots ejecting safely.
Two pilots sustained injuries when a Royal Air Force (RAF) training jet crashed in Wales on Thursday afternoon. The incident occurred with a Hawk T2 aircraft shortly after it took off from RAF Valley in Anglesey.
Witnesses reported hearing a loud noise and seeing flames emanating from the jet before it went down near the village of Rhosneigr. Both crew members, identified as trainees, ejected safely using parachutes and are being treated for minor injuries, according to North Wales Police.
Footage circulating online appears to show the wreckage of the aircraft engulfed in fire, and another video captured an air ambulance landing in a nearby field. A social media post from a local influencer showed what seemed to be the two crew members descending with parachutes.
One eyewitness described watching the jet climb and then notice flames. "It started to pitch up violently twice... then both pilots ejected and the Hawk crashed about a mile away," the witness recounted.
A source confirmed awareness of the incident involving a Hawk jet, stating that the crew ejected and were believed not to be seriously injured. The incident reportedly occurred within the hour prior to the source's comment.
North Wales Police have advised the public to avoid the area while emergency services, including fire and ambulance services, attend the scene. The force indicated that further updates would be provided when appropriate.
RAF Valley is a key training base for the RAF, responsible for training future fighter pilots. The Hawk T2, manufactured by BAE Systems, has been in service for training British pilots since 1976.