MiG fighter aircraft crashes near Goa, both pilots safe

PANAJI: At about 11:45 am a MiG 29K twin seater aircraft on a routine training sortie crashed about 15 kilometres from the capital after it encountered a flock of birds after take off from INS HANSA Air Base at Dabolim Goa.


According to Indian Navy, the pilot observed the left engine had flamed out and the right engine had caught fire.

"Attempts to recover the aircraft were unsuccessful due to damage and low height. The pilot with his presence of mind pointed the aircraft away from populated areas and both pilots ejected safely," said the Navy spokesperson.

An enquiry has been instituted by the Indian Navy.

The pilots Capt M Sheokhand and Lt Cdr Deepak Yadav are safe. There is no loss of life or damage to property on ground, said the Navy.

Meanwhile attempts are on to search for the flight data recorder. Naval personnel are scouring the scene of the crash and have cordoned off the wreckage.