Bangladesh Air Force Jet Crashes Into Dhaka School | One Swip News
In a catastrophic turn of events, a Bangladesh Air Force jet crash struck Milestone School and College in Uttara, Dhaka on Monday, July 21, 2025, around 1:06 PM. The Uttara plane crash left 27 dead, including 25 children, and has become one of the most heartbreaking aviation disasters in Bangladesh’s modern history.
F-7 BGI Jet Suffers Mechanical Failure Mid-Flight
The aircraft involved was an F-7 BGI, the latest model in the Chinese-made Chengdu J-7 series, used by the Bangladesh Air Force for pilot training. Acquired under a 2011 deal, the jet was on a routine training flight when it suffered a critical mechanical fault shortly after takeoff from Kurmitola Airbase. The pilot, Flight Lieutenant Towkir Islam, attempted to divert the aircraft but crashed into the school compound, igniting a massive blaze — now labeled as the Dhaka air crash of 2025.
Jet Hits Classroom Block Filled With Young Students
The F-7 BGI crash impacted a two-story academic block at Milestone School, where children aged 6 to 13 were in class. The resulting explosion destroyed part of the building and caused a fast-spreading fire. As the school was in session, many parents waiting outside witnessed the tragic air crash in Dhaka unfold in horror.
Death Toll Reaches 27; Majority Are Children
Authorities have confirmed 27 deaths — 25 of them schoolchildren, along with one female teacher and the pilot. Over 160 individuals sustained injuries, with 88 still hospitalized — many in critical condition with severe burns. Most of the injured are under the age of 12. The aviation safety concerns in Bangladesh have now intensified following this tragic event.
Eyewitnesses Describe Scene as ‘Hell on Earth’
Residents of Uttara Sector 11 described the explosion as earth-shaking. Witnesses reported seeing body parts scattered, classrooms engulfed in flames, and children screaming in panic. Survivors said the building turned into a death trap in seconds. Thick black smoke was visible across Dhaka for over an hour, drawing comparisons to other aviation disasters in Asia.
Rapid Emergency Response Saves Lives Amid Flames
Within minutes, eight fire service units, ambulances, and military rescue teams arrived. Bangladesh Air Force helicopters were also deployed to evacuate critically injured victims. Children and staff were rushed to Dhaka Medical College Hospital and the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery. Hospitals became overwhelmed with pediatric burn victims, prompting an all-night emergency operation.
Pilot Honored for Bravery, Official Probe Underway
Military authorities confirmed a mechanical failure as the probable cause. A high-level investigation is underway to determine the exact issue. The government has denied any information cover-up, assuring full transparency in victim identification and reporting. The Bangladesh Air Force has posthumously honored Flight Lt. Towkir Islam for steering the aircraft away from more densely populated areas, preventing a greater disaster.
Nation in Mourning as Bangladesh Grapples With Tragedy
Following the Bangladesh jet crash, the nation has entered official mourning. Flags are flown at half-mast, and prayer services have been held across religious institutions. Public outrage is mounting, with citizens demanding stronger aviation safety laws in Bangladesh, particularly regarding military training flights over civilian areas.
Counseling, Compensation, and Recovery in Motion
Crisis support teams are offering trauma counseling to survivors and families. Emergency medical aid, compensation, and victim identification processes are active. Families remain gathered at hospitals and school grounds seeking answers. Authorities have pledged long-term support for the victims of the Milestone School and College tragedy.
National Resolve Strengthens After Historic Loss
This incident has united the country in grief and resolve. As the aviation probe continues, citizens are calling for:
- Stricter Bangladesh Air Force training protocols
- Revised flight paths
- Clear accountability
The Uttara school air crash is a painful wake-up call to reform air safety standards in Bangladesh. The memory of the children lost may now drive long-overdue change.