An RAF Hawk T2 jet crashed and exploded moments after two pilots ejected during a training flight over Anglesey (Ynys Môn) in north Wales on Wednesday. The aircraft had just taken off from RAF Valley when the incident occurred, witnesses said.
Both pilots parachuted to the ground and were reportedly treated for minor injuries. A video of the crash shows the aircraft appearing to climb unevenly before the pilots eject. The plane then nosedives towards the ground while trailing smoke and crashing near houses and agricultural buildings, sending an enormous fireball into the sky.
An RAF spokesperson said: “An incident involving an RAF T2 Hawk aircraft, flying out of RAF Valley, occurred near Anglesey. An investigation is under way and we will not comment further at this time.”
Incident Details and Location
The crash site, at Pencarnisiog, is less than two miles from the airbase. RAF Valley is home to the air force’s No 4 Flying Training School, which trains fighter pilots using Hawk T2 and Texan T1 aircraft.
A spokesperson for North Wales fire and rescue service said: “Crews and officers attended an incident involving an aircraft in the Pencarnisiog area of Anglesey, working alongside colleagues from Royal Air Force, North Wales police, Welsh ambulance service and Wales air ambulance. The fire is now under control.”
They added: “Members of the public are asked to avoid the area to allow emergency services to deal with the incident.”
RAF Hawk T2: Key Facts
The Hawk T2 is a advanced jet trainer used by the RAF to prepare pilots for frontline aircraft. Here are some key specifications:
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | BAE Systems |
| Role | Advanced jet training |
| Crew | 2 (instructor and student) |
| Max Speed | Mach 0.84 (638 mph) |
| Service Ceiling | 45,000 ft |
Key Takeaways from the Anglesey Jet Crash
- Both pilots ejected safely and sustained only minor injuries.
- The crash occurred shortly after takeoff from RAF Valley.
- An investigation is underway by the RAF and emergency services.
- The Hawk T2 is a critical asset for RAF pilot training.
- Local residents were asked to avoid the area as crews managed the fire.
Investigation and Response
The RAF has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. The site has been cordoned off, and emergency services remain on scene. The incident has raised questions about the safety of training flights, but the RAF has not commented further.
Witnesses described seeing the aircraft climb unevenly before the pilots ejected. The plane then crashed near houses, sending a fireball into the sky. Fortunately, no civilians were injured.
FAQ
What caused the RAF Hawk T2 crash in Anglesey?
The exact cause is under investigation by the RAF. Witnesses reported the aircraft climbed unevenly before the pilots ejected, but no official cause has been released.
Were the pilots injured in the ejection?
Both pilots parachuted to safety and were reportedly treated for minor injuries. They are expected to recover fully.
What is RAF Valley known for?
RAF Valley is home to No 4 Flying Training School, which trains fighter pilots using Hawk T2 and Texan T1 aircraft. It is a key base for RAF training operations.