A devastating crash of a Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft into a two-story school building in Dhaka has resulted in 27 deaths, with dozens more critically injured in one of the country's deadliest aviation disasters. The incident occurred Monday afternoon when the Chinese-made F-7 BGI aircraft experienced technical problems shortly after takeoff.

According to Military.com, the crash triggered a massive fire at Milestone School and College, leading to a desperate rescue operation that saved 171 people through various means of transportation, including helicopters and ambulances. The victims included Flight Lt. Mohammed Toukir Islam, the pilot, and Maherin Chowdhury, a heroic teacher who died after rescuing more than 20 students.

The impact left the school building smoldering, with rescue teams working tirelessly to evacuate students and staff. Currently, 78 people remain hospitalized, with approximately two dozen in critical condition due to severe burns and other injuries sustained during the catastrophic event.

Technical Malfunction Leads to Fatal Descent

The military reported that the aircraft experienced problems at 1:06 p.m., just moments after taking off from the A.K. Khandaker air force base. The pilot, who was reportedly completing his solo flight training, attempted to divert the aircraft away from densely populated areas before the inevitable crash.

The school's location in the Uttara neighborhood, approximately 11 kilometers from the air base, complicated the situation due to its proximity to a metro station and numerous residential buildings. The impact caused the school building to shake violently, followed by a massive explosion that sent students running for safety.

The circumstances surrounding the pilot's death remain unclear, as military officials have not specified whether he attempted to eject before impact. This incident marks the deadliest plane crash in Dhaka's recent history, surpassing the 2008 F-7 training jet crash that claimed only the pilot's life.

National Response and International Support

The Bangladesh government declared Tuesday a national day of mourning, with flags flying at half-staff across the country. The interim leader, Muhammad Yunus, expressed deep sorrow and promised a thorough investigation into the "heartbreaking accident."

Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi extended his support through social media, offering assistance to Bangladesh during this tragic time. The crash has united the nation in grief, with athletes and celebrities dedicating their achievements to the victims.

Local hospitals, particularly the specialized burn unit, have been overwhelmed with patients and concerned family members. A blood donation camp has been established to help treat the injured, while DNA testing may be required to identify some of the severely burned victims.

Community Impact and Ongoing Recovery

The crash site became a scene of chaos and desperation as parents searched frantically for their children. Eyewitness accounts describe harrowing scenes of fathers running with injured children and mothers desperately searching for their missing ones.

Students who witnessed the crash, including 11th-grader Estiak Elahi Khan, described the terrifying moments following the impact. The school, which serves approximately 2,000 students from elementary through high school levels, has been deeply affected by this tragedy.

Doctors at Uttara Adhunik Hospital reported treating more than 60 students, many between 12 and 16 years old, before transferring them to specialized facilities. Rescue operations continued into Monday evening as crews worked to clear debris and search for additional victims.

Aftermath and Investigation Continues

The military has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash, focusing on the technical malfunction that led to the disaster. Twenty bodies have been released to families, while some remain unidentified due to severe burns.

The incident has sparked discussions about air safety protocols and the proximity of flight training routes to populated areas. The crash site continues to be monitored as investigators gather evidence to determine the exact cause of the technical failure.

The tragedy has left an indelible mark on the Dhaka community, with many families still awaiting news about their loved ones. The specialized burn hospital remains the center of activity as medical teams work tirelessly to treat the injured and support affected families.