A training aircraft of the Pakistan Air Force’s Asghar Khan Academy Risalpur, located in Nowshera, crashed on Monday near Mardan during a routine training mission due to a technical fault. As a result, two officers onboard were martyred, while three bystanders on the ground were injured.

According to the spokesperson of the Pakistan Air Force, the officers aboard the ill-fated aircraft were Flight Lieutenant Muhammad Qasim Abdullah of the Pakistan Air Force and Lieutenant Taha Abbasi of the Pakistan Navy, both of whom embraced martyrdom in the accident. After hitting the ground, the wreckage of the aircraft scattered in the surrounding area, injuring three passersby.

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Following the incident, Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu expressed deep sorrow over the martyrdom of the two officers. In his condolence message, he paid tribute to their professionalism, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the country, stating that these brave officers who laid down their lives in service to the nation were true embodiments of the high traditions of the armed forces.

The Air Chief further said that the courage, sacrifice, and patriotism of the martyrs will always be remembered and that they will remain a source of inspiration for future generations. He also extended heartfelt condolences to the bereaved families and prayed that Allah Almighty grants the martyrs the highest ranks in paradise and gives patience and strength to their loved ones.