Locals Rush to Rescue IAF Pilots After Microlight Aircraft Crash-Lands in Prayagraj

Two Indian Air Force (IAF) pilots narrowly escaped serious injury after their microlight training aircraft crash-landed in a wetland area of Prayagraj following a technical malfunction. The incident occurred on Tuesday during a routine training sortie, triggering a swift and courageous response from local residents who rushed in to rescue the stranded pilots.

According to eyewitnesses, the two-seater microlight aircraft descended suddenly and landed in a shallow, muddy wetland filled with dense aquatic weeds. The pilots were briefly trapped in waist-deep water after the aircraft came to a halt, raising fears among locals who heard a loud noise moments before the crash.

“We heard a loud sound and then saw the plane crashing into the wetland. The pilots were stuck in the muddy water. People from nearby areas immediately rushed in and helped pull them out,” a local resident involved in the rescue operation said.

Dramatic Rescue Caught on Camera

A video from the scene, which has since surfaced online, shows the two IAF pilots in uniform walking safely towards dry land, escorted by villagers. The footage highlights the prompt action taken by locals, who did not hesitate to enter the muddy water to assist the pilots before official rescue teams arrived.

The aircraft, which landed in an uninhabited area, suffered visible damage but did not cause any harm to civilians or nearby property.

IAF Confirms Technical Malfunction

In an official statement, the Indian Air Force confirmed that the microlight aircraft had experienced a technical malfunction mid-sortie, forcing the pilots to carry out an emergency landing.

“A Microlite aircraft of the IAF, while undertaking a routine sortie, from AF Station Bamrauli near Prayagraj at 1215 hrs on 21 Jan 26, experienced technical malfunction, and was safely force landed in an uninhabited area, ensuring no damage to civil life or property,” the Air Force said.

The aircraft had taken off from Bamrauli Air Force Station, a key IAF installation in Uttar Pradesh.

Police, Fire Brigade Join Rescue Effort

Deputy Commissioner of Police (City) Manish Shandilya said that police personnel, fire brigade teams, and trained divers were rushed to the site soon after information about the crash was received. He credited the coordinated effort of emergency services and local residents for the safe rescue of both pilots.

“Divers played a crucial role in the operation, as the aircraft had landed in a muddy wetland. With joint efforts, both pilots were brought out safely,” the DCP said.

Inquiry Ordered

The Indian Air Force has ordered a Court of Inquiry to ascertain the exact cause of the technical malfunction that led to the emergency landing. Microlight aircraft are commonly used by the IAF for training, reconnaissance, and survey missions, and incidents involving them are closely reviewed to maintain operational safety standards.

The incident has once again highlighted the importance of quick decision-making by pilots during emergencies, as well as the crucial role civilians can play in rescue efforts during unexpected situations.

As visuals of the rescue continue to circulate, the bravery and presence of mind shown by local residents in Prayagraj have drawn widespread appreciation.