Rajasthan: Pilot Killed After MiG-21 Crashed at Jaisalmer
In yet another incident, a pilot was killed after a MiG-21 plane of the Indian Air Force crashed at Jailsalmer in Rajasthan on Friday during a training sortie. The pilot was identified as Wing Commander Harshit Sinha.
The incident took place in Sudasiri village near the Indo-Pak border. Jailsalmer SP Ajay Singh said that the plane crashed in the Desert National Park area under the Sam police station.
The IAF took to twitter informing about the accident. it said, "This evening, around 8.30 pm, a MiG-21 aircraft of IAF met with a flying accident in the western sector during a training sortie."
It added that an inquiry "is being ordered".
"With deep sorrow, IAF conveys the sad demise of Wing Commander Harshit Sinha in the flying accident this evening and stands firmly with the family of the braveheart," it stated.
Sam police station SHO Dalpat Singh said the plane crashed in sand dunes near Sudasari.
A witness, who lives in a hamlet near the Desert National Park, said he saw the plane burst into flames. He claimed the plane caught fire before hitting the ground, india Today reported.
Rajasthan Chief Minister Ashok Gehlot also extended condolences to Wing Commander Harshit Sinha's family. "Saddened to know Wing Commander Harshit Sinha lost his life, when a MiG-21 aircraft met with a flying accident in the western sector during a training sortie. My heartfelt condolences to his family members. We share their grief and pray they find strength," CM Gehlot said.
Condoling the death of the IAF pilot, Rajasthan Governor Kalraj Mishra also issued a statement saying, "The untimely demise of Wing Commander Mr. Harshit Sinha Ji in MiG-21 plane mishap in Jaisalmer district is extremely saddening. Honourable Governor Mr. Kalraj Mishra ji expressed his deepest condolences to his family members."
