At least 20 individuals, including the pilot, tragically lost their lives when a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 aircraft crashed into a building belonging to Milestone College in Dhaka, Bangladesh on July 21, 2025. The incident has left students, teachers, and bystanders in shock as they recall the harrowing moment when the jet collided with the school campus.
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Eyewitnesses described a scene of horror as the aircraft, engulfed in flames, approached the school building before crashing into it. Hasbya Rahman, a student at Milestone School and College, recounted how she and others witnessed the terrifying sight of the plane hurtling towards them. Rahman vividly remembered the panic and chaos that ensued as smoke and screams filled the air, with some teachers bravely attempting to evacuate children amidst the fire and smoke.
According to reports, the Bangladesh Army’s public relations office confirmed that the aircraft involved in the crash was an F-7 BGI owned by the Air Force. The Bangladesh Armed Forces stated that the crash was a result of a mechanical fault, leading to the devastating loss of lives, including that of the pilot. Additionally, 171 individuals sustained injuries in the aftermath of the crash, further highlighting the scale of the tragedy.
Masud Tarik, a teacher at the school, shared his account of the moment the crash unfolded. He recalled being near the school gate when he heard an explosion and turned back to see the horrifying sight of fire and smoke emanating from the crash site. The impact of the crash was felt throughout the school community, with classes for young students ranging from playgroup age to grades 1-5 directly affected by the tragedy.
As emergency response teams rushed to the scene, firefighters battled to contain the blaze that erupted from the crash site. Videos from Bangladesh’s Channel 24 captured the intensity of the situation as smoke billowed from the building and rescue operations were underway. Brave teachers and college staff played a crucial role in initially rescuing students before the arrival of official emergency services.
The gravity of the incident prompted Muhammad Yunus, the leader of Bangladesh’s interim government, to assure the nation that a thorough investigation would be conducted to determine the cause of the crash. Additionally, he pledged support and assistance for all those impacted by the tragedy. The nation is set to observe a national day of mourning in honour of the lives lost in the crash, with flags to be flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.
The aftermath of the Bangladesh Air Force jet crash has left a lasting impact on the community, sparking an outpouring of grief and solidarity. The resilience and quick actions of individuals at the scene underscore the importance of unity in times of crisis. As the nation mourns the loss of those who perished in the tragic incident, efforts to investigate the cause and provide support to the affected individuals remain at the forefront of the recovery process.
In conclusion, the devastating crash serves as a sombre reminder of the fragility of life and the unforeseen tragedies that can unfold in an instant. The bravery and compassion demonstrated by the school community and first responders in the face of adversity highlight the strength and spirit of unity amidst adversity. As the nation comes together to mourn and seek answers, the memory of those lost in the tragic event will forever be cherished and honoured.