Two IAF pilots killed in Assam crash

Two pilots of Indian Air Force (IAF) were killed on Thursday when their microlight aircraft crashed on Assam's Majuli island, officials said.

The microlight Virus SW-80 aircraft took off from Air Force Station Jorhat for a routine sortie around 12 noon and crashed shortly on the island, police and defence officials said.

The pilots - Wing Commanders J. James and D. Vats - attempted an emergency landing but the aircraft crashed in a sand bar and went up in flames. Both died in the crash.

A court of inquiry has been ordered to ascertain the cause of the accident.

--IANS

 

ao/him/vd