BAF chief cancels Turkey trip, visits jet crash victims

Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Hasan Mahmood Khan cut short his official trip to Turkey and returned to Bangladesh following the tragic crash of a Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) F-7 BGI fighter jet at Milestone School and College in Uttara.

Air Chief Marshal Khan had departed Dhaka on July 21 for a pre-scheduled official visit to Turkey. 

However, upon landing at a Turkish airport, he was informed of the crash and immediately cancelled his visit. He began his return journey from the airport and arrived back in Dhaka on July 22.

Soon after his arrival, the Air Force Chief visited Combined Military Hospital (CMH) and National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery to check on the injured victims. 

He inquired about their treatment and health conditions and assured that the government is taking all necessary steps to ensure the best possible medical care for the injured.

Speaking to reporters during his visit, he said, “The government is fully committed to ensuring proper treatment for the injured and will continue to provide all necessary support. Following the directives of the Honourable Chief Adviser, Air Force, in coordination with other forces and agencies, will do everything required to support the victims and their families.”

The Air Chief also met with the families of those who lost their lives in the tragic accident and expressed deep sorrow and sympathy. “The lives lost in this horrific tragedy are irreplaceable,” he said. “I pray for the departed souls and assure the families that Air Force stands with them during this difficult time.”

Following the funeral parade of Flight Lieutenant Md. Tawkir Islam at BAF Base Bashar in Kurmitola, the Air Force Chief urged the nation to remain calm and avoid believing or spreading misinformation. 

He assured that all verified statistics regarding the deceased and injured would be made available regularly through Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).

He also called upon the media and the wider civil society to act responsibly and avoid disseminating rumours, emphasizing the importance of protecting the nation’s image during such a national crisis.

Finally, he confirmed that a high-level investigation board has been formed to determine the exact cause of the crash. “The investigation will be conducted with full transparency and utmost seriousness,” he added.