A tragic accident occurred on Monday, July 21, 2025, when a Bangladesh Air Force training fighter jet crashed into a school building in Dhaka’s Uttara area, resulting in a significant loss of life and widespread injuries. The death toll from the crash has risen to 27, with over 170 people injured, many of whom are students.
The F-7 BGI aircraft, manufactured in China, experienced a “mechanical fault” shortly after takeoff and crashed into the Milestone School and College building at Diabari in Dhaka’s Uttara area. The pilot, Flight Lieutenant Mohammad Towkir Islam, was killed in the crash. According to eyewitnesses, the jet crashed into the two-story building, where classes for primary section students were taking place, around 1:15 pm.
The impact of the crash was immense, with many students and staff members injured or killed. A teacher who was injured in the incident described the horrifying scene, saying, “There was no warning. Before we even understood what was happening, there were flames all around. Visibility dropped instantly. All I could see was fire, then smoke.” The teacher also mentioned that both of his hands were burnt, and he was experiencing breathing difficulties.
Rescue efforts were promptly initiated, with fire service and civil defense teams, along with army troops and ambulances, rushing to the scene. The injured were transported to nearby hospitals, including the Combined Military Hospital (CMH) and the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery (NIBPS). A high-level investigation committee has been formed by the Bangladesh Air Force to determine the cause of the accident.
The government has announced a day of mourning, with flags flying at half-staff across the country. Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus expressed shock and sorrow over the casualties caused by the crash, saying, “I am deeply saddened by the casualties caused by the heartbreaking accident involving a Bangladesh Air Force jet.” Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also expressed deep shock at the loss of lives, offering condolences to the bereaved families and assuring India’s support to Bangladesh.
The crash has sent shockwaves through the nation, with many mourning the loss of young lives. The Milestone school, with around 2,000 students, offers classes from elementary grades to high school. The accident has left the community in grief, with many families still searching for their loved ones.
