Indian Air Force PC-7 Trainer Crashes Near Chennai, Pilot Ejects Safely

In a startling incident near Chennai, an Indian Air Force (IAF) aircraft, the Pilatus PC-7 Mk II, crashed during a routine training mission in Tambaram, Chengalpattu district. Videos shared on social media captured debris scattered across the crash site, drawing the attention of local residents.

The IAF confirmed that the pilot ejected safely, avoiding any casualties. Authorities also reported no damage to civilian property during the mishap. The aircraft was conducting a standard training sortie when it met with the accident at approximately 2:25 PM local time.

Following the crash, the IAF promptly announced the constitution of a Court of Inquiry to investigate the cause of the incident. The investigation will aim to determine the factors that led to the accident and ensure that preventive measures are implemented to avoid similar incidents in the future.

Locals at the scene described seeing aircraft debris scattered over a wide area, with emergency personnel quickly arriving to secure the site. The prompt action by the pilot in ejecting safely is being praised as a demonstration of training and professionalism.

The Indian Air Force regularly conducts training exercises with the PC-7 Mk II aircraft, which plays a crucial role in pilot training programs across the country. This incident highlights the inherent risks involved in aviation training but also underscores the effectiveness of safety protocols that allowed the pilot to survive without injury.

The IAF has assured that operations continue to maintain safety and that detailed updates from the inquiry will be shared once available.