Pilot’s quick decision averts major disaster, all crew safe
January 21, 2026: A major incident triggered panic in Prayagraj on Tuesday after an Army trainer aircraft crashed into a pond near KP College. The aircraft reportedly lost balance mid-air during a routine sortie, prompting locals to alert the police and administration. Rescue teams, including the fire brigade, rushed to the spot as visuals showed the white aircraft partially submerged in water hyacinths.
According to reports, the aircraft had taken off from Vidya Vahini School when the pilot detected a technical malfunction mid-flight. Acting swiftly, the pilot attempted a controlled landing in an open area to avoid a densely populated zone, but the aircraft eventually crashed into the nearby pond. All three personnel on board safely ejected using parachutes and landed near the school premises without sustaining any injuries.
Eyewitnesses said they heard a loud, “rocket-like” sound as the aircraft lost control before crashing. Authorities confirmed that the pilot’s presence of mind prevented a potentially serious tragedy. Police, fire services, and RAF teams remain deployed at the site as recovery operations continue, while officials have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the crash.