According to an official IAF statement, the aircraft was on a standard training mission when it went down in the vicinity of the base. The pilot managed to eject in time and landed safely with no reported injuries. He is currently undergoing medical checks as per protocol.
The Air Force has ordered a Court of Inquiry to determine the cause of the crash. Investigators will examine the aircraft’s flight data, maintenance logs, and possible mechanical or technical malfunctions. Weather conditions and operational factors during the sortie will also form part of the probe.
Officials said all standard safety procedures were followed before the flight, and the accident is being treated as a high-priority case. The IAF continues to operate the Pilatus PC-7 MkII as its primary basic trainer for cadets at flying training schools across the country.
The incident comes at a time when military aviation safety has been in global focus. In July, a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI fighter jet crashed into Milestone School and College in Dhaka, killing 27 people, including students and the pilot. Preliminary findings there pointed to a suspected engine failure in the Chinese-origin fighter aircraft, reigniting debates over ageing platforms and their reliability.
While the crash near Tambaram resulted in no casualties, the IAF is expected to review training schedules and operational readiness at nearby bases until the investigation offers clarity. The Air Force has reiterated that flight safety remains its top priority, and corrective measuresif required will be implemented once the inquiry concludes
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