Two pilots were martyred after a Pakistan Air Force (PAF) trainer aircraft crashed near Mardan during a routine training mission, according to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
The deceased pilots were identified as Flight Lieutenant Muhammad Qasim Abdullah of the Pakistan Air Force and Lieutenant Taha Abbasi of the Pakistan Navy. Both officers were on board the training aircraft when the accident occurred.
ISPR stated that the aircraft was conducting a routine training sortie at the time of the crash. Authorities have not yet disclosed the cause of the accident.
Following the incident, Air Headquarters ordered the formation of a board of inquiry to investigate the crash and determine the circumstances that led to the tragic accident. The inquiry will examine all aspects of the flight and submit its findings after a detailed investigation.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HI, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Staff, along with the Services Chiefs and personnel of the Pakistan Armed Forces, expressed profound sorrow over the loss of the two officers. They extended their heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyrs and prayed for strength and patience for their loved ones during this difficult time.
The tragic incident has cast a shadow over the armed forces community, with tributes pouring in for the two officers who lost their lives while performing their professional duties in service of the country.
