UP News: In a close brush with disaster, a military aircraft crashed into an empty field near Soniga village, catching fire on impact. The pilot and co-pilot managed a daring escape by ejecting moments before the plane hit the ground.Pilot and co-pilot eject just in timeA military aircraft crashed dramatically near Soniga village, close to Kagaroal, after a suspected technical failure during flight. According to eyewitness reports, the pilot and another crew member spotted the looming danger and promptly ejected before the plane hit the ground. Both landed approximately two kilometers from the crash site, emerging unscathed after deploying their parachutes mid-air.#Breaking A MiG-29 fighter jet has crashed near Agra, Uttar Pradesh. The pilot has ejected from the plane. The plane had taken off from Adampur in Punjab and was en route to Agra for an exercise when the incident happened. More details awaited. Court of Inquiry to be ordered. pic.twitter.com/DUHiiHhVmM— Sanjay Jha (@JhaSanjay07) November 4, 2024Plane catches fire upon impactThe aircraft descended rapidly, ultimately crashing into an unoccupied field, where it burst into flames immediately upon contact with the ground. The villagers reported a loud explosion followed by a large fireball, prompting them to rush to the scene. Fortunately, no injuries were reported on the ground, as the area was a vacant field with no nearby habitation. Emergency services swiftly responded, ensuring containment of the flames before they could spread.Eyewitness accounts of a miraculous escapeWitnesses described the dramatic sight as both crew members ejected from the aircraft, their parachutes opening just in time to facilitate a safe descent. We saw two parachutes opening in the sky before the plane crashed and burst into flames, a local resident recounted, reflecting the miraculous escape of the pilot and co-pilot.Cause of crash under investigationMilitary officials are currently investigating the incident, with initial assessments suggesting a technical malfunction. Both the pilot and co-pilot will undergo medical examinations as a standard procedure, and statements from the crew are expected to provide further insights into the moments leading up to the crash. A thorough inquiry has been initiated to determine the exact cause of the incident and prevent similar occurrences in the future.Safety protocols praised as lives are savedThe successful ejection of both crew members underscores the effectiveness of safety protocols in military aviation. The crews response demonstrates rigorous training and adherence to emergency procedures, an official spokesperson stated. Military engineers are now assessing the wreckage to gain a comprehensive understanding of the malfunction.The crash has drawn attention to the importance of safety checks and emergency readiness in military operations. Officials have emphasized that the safety of personnel remains paramount, with the military maintaining strict adherence to protocol even in high-stakes situations.
