Goa: Indian Navy's MiG-29K fighter aircraft crashed in Goa soon after it took off for a training mission, according to Indian Navy twitter handle. Both the pilots have managed to eject safely. The aircraft involved in the crash was a trainer version of the fighter jet.
Briefing the press, Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal said, "The MiG-29K trainer aircraft suffered an engine fire. The pilots Captain M Sheokhand and Lt Commander Deepak Yadav ejected safely."
"Indian Navy's MiG-29K fighter aircraft suffered an engine fire. The pilots Captain M Sheokhand and Lt Commander Deepak Yadav ejected safely."- Commander Vivek Madhwal, Spokesperson, Indian Navy
The Indian Navy also added, "Mig 29 trainer aircraft was flying from ashore (Goa). During recovery, there was a bird hit and fire on the right engine was observed. Both pilots ejected and are safe. Aircraft crashed in open/ safe area. No casualties reported. Further details being ascertained."
Defence minister Rajnath Singh spoke to the pilots. He tweeted, "Capt Mrigank and Deepak Yadav of the MiG-29K which crashed after the take-off from Goa today. It is a matter of great satisfaction that they managed to eject in time and both of them are safe. I pray for their good health and well-being."
Timely action by the pilots in pointing the aircraft away from the populated areas ensured Safety of life on the ground, Army told on social media later.