3 civilians killed in MiG-21 crash in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh

The cause of the crash is not yet known. Details are awaited.

MiG-21 aircraft of the Indian Air Force has crashed in Rajasthan's Hanumangarh. The aircraft had got airborne for a routine operational training sortie from the Air Force Station at Suratgarh. 

The cause of the crash is not yet known. Soon thereafter, the pilot experienced an onboard emergency, following which he attempted to recover the aircraft as per existing procedures. Having failed to do so, he initiated an ejection, sustaining minor injuries in the process. The pilot was recovered from about 25 kilometres North East of Suratgarh's base.

The aircraft wreckage fell on a house in Bahlol Nagar in Hanumangarh District, unfortunately leading to the loss of three lives. In a statement, the IAF regretted the loss of lives and offered its deepest condolences to the bereaved families.

A Court of Inquiry has been constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident.

Bikaner Inspector General of Police Om Prakash said two people have died and as many injured in the plane crash in the Pilibanga area of Hanumangarh district. 

The pilot made all efforts to avert human casualties and crash-landed the plane on the outskirts of a village, Prakash said, adding that over 2,000 people have gathered at the crash spot and police and administration are trying to maintain law and order.