A Bangladesh Air Force F‑7 BGI training jet tragically crashed into the Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka, on 21 July 2025, during a routine training sortie. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff from Kurmitola Air Base, with the aircraft reportedly experiencing a mechanical malfunction.
Casualties & Injuries
- 31 people killed, including the pilot, at least 25 students, and one heroic teacher.
- Approximately 171 injured, many suffering severe burns, with over 80 still hospitalized.
- Rescue operations were conducted by the Army, Fire Service, BGB, and Civil Defense teams, who worked tirelessly to extract victims and evacuate the wounded.
Pilot’s Bravery
Flight Lieutenant Mohammed Toukir Islam reportedly attempted to steer the failing aircraft away from densely populated zones toward a more open area, sacrificing the plane to protect students and locals.
Aftermath & Public Response
- The nation observed a day of mourning on 22 July, with flags flown at half-mast.
- Hundreds of students protested near the crash site, demanding accountability, compensation, and stricter safety measures. Police responded with tear gas during some confrontations.
- Prime Minister Narendra Modi and the Chinese Embassy offered condolences. India also deployed a team of burn-specialist doctors and nurses for immediate aid.
- Pope Francis expressed his prayers and solidarity with the victims, “entrust[ing] the deceased to the merciful love of the Lord.”
- The Bangladeshi government has launched a formal investigation, overseen by Chief Adviser Muhammad Yunus.
- The High Court has called for the creation of a technical committee to examine aviation safety and training protocols.
- Students and civil society are pushing for a ban on using aging or poorly-maintained jets over populated areas.
These images capture the devastating aftermath: thick smoke, emergency responders, distraught parents, and a community in mourning. The bravery of the pilot and the tragic loss of children and a selfless teacher will be remembered.
- Students protest accountability and reforms
- India’s medical team arrives in Dhaka
- Government declares national mourning and launches probe
About the F‑7 BGI
The Chinese-made multi-role F‑7 BGI was delivered to Bangladesh between 2011–2013, designed for both training and light combat. This latest incident raises critical questions about the safety of military trainee flights over urban.