Bangladesh: Jet crash kills 27, including children, injuring at least 88

The death toll has risen to 27 after a Bangladesh Air Force training jet crashed into a college and school campus in Dhaka on Monday. Government sources report that at least 88 people with burn injuries are currently receiving treatment in hospitals

The F-7 BGI aircraft, which was on a routine training mission, crashed shortly after takeoff at 1:06 pm local time on Monday from Kurmitola Air Base.

Military officials have attributed the crash to a mechanical failure.

Footage circulating on social media showed ongoing rescue operations amid charred buildings, with families of the victims gathered at the scene in grief.

Sayedur Rehman, Special Assistant to the Chief Advisor on Health, stated that at least 27 people, including 25 children, a teacher, and the pilot, lost their lives in the incident, while 88 others sustained burn injuries and are being treated in hospitals.

In the wake of the tragedy, authorities have declared a national day of mourning, with flags flown at half-mast and special prayers held across the country.

The F-7 BGI, considered the final and most advanced version of China’s Chengdu J-7/F-7 fighter series, was delivered to Bangladesh as part of a 2011 contract for 16 aircraft, completed by 2013, according to Jane’s Information Group.

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This incident came as neighbouring India is still grappling with the aftermath of the deadliest aviation disaster in a decade. 

Last month, an Air India aircraft crashed into a medical college hostel in Ahmedabad, killing 241 of the 242 people on board, along with 19 individuals on the ground. Only one person survived the crash.