Pakistan Army Training Aircraft Crashes Near Quetta, Two Pilots Martyred

RAWALPINDI: A Pakistan Army Mushshak training aircraft crashed near Quetta, the provincial capital of Balochistan, due to a technical fault, resulting in the martyrdom of both pilots on board.

According to a statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the accident occurred near Nawan Killi, on the outskirts of Quetta, while the aircraft was on a routine training flight. A sudden technical malfunction developed during the flight, leading to the crash.

The ISPR identified the martyred personnel as instructor pilot Major Hasnain Shehzad Humayun and student pilot Captain Abdul Samad.

Security forces and rescue teams rushed to the site following the incident and cordoned off the crash area. The necessary legal and official procedures were subsequently completed.

The tragic incident prompted expressions of grief and condolences from the country’s leadership. President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif issued separate messages paying tribute to the sacrifices of the two officers.

President Zardari prayed for the elevation of the martyrs’ ranks and for patience and strength for their bereaved families.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said that the brave sons of the nation who sacrificed their lives in the service of the country were a source of pride for the entire nation. He added that their services and sacrifices would always be remembered and appreciated.

The prime minister also expressed his heartfelt condolences to the families of the martyred officers, saying that the entire nation stood with them in their hour of grief.