A tragic accident occurred at Graf Ignatievo Air Base in Bulgaria, resulting in the deaths of two experienced pilots during a failed aerobatic maneuver.
According to Daily Mail Online, the incident took place on Friday, September 13, just before a scheduled military airshow was set to begin. The pilots, identified as Major Petko Dimitrov and Senior Lieutenant Ventsislav Dunkin, were performing a training exercise in preparation for the upcoming event.
Tragically, their aircraft, reported to be an L-39ZA Albatros, crashed while attempting a loop-the-loop maneuver, leaving no time for the pilots to eject due to the low altitude.
Eyewitness Footage Captures Devastating Crash
Horrifying footage of the incident shows the aircraft executing acrobatic stunts before suddenly climbing high into the air in an apparent attempt to perform a 360-degree vertical loop. However, the plane seems to lose power mid-maneuver, causing it to plummet towards the ground despite the pilot's desperate efforts to regain control.
The video captures the moment of impact as the jet crashes into the ground, immediately erupting into a massive fireball. A large cloud of black smoke can be seen rising from the crash site as the footage concludes, leaving viewers in shock.
Bulgarian Air Force Commander Major General Dimitar Petrov emphasized that this was a routine flight for which the pilots had been meticulously preparing for several months. He also noted that the aircraft had recently undergone restoration work.
Military and Government Officials Respond to Tragedy
In response to the devastating accident, Bulgarian Defence Minister Atanas Zapryanov canceled the scheduled air show and announced that an investigation was underway to determine the circumstances and causes of the incident.
Military prosecutors, investigators, and members of the Military Police Service are also involved in the inquiry.
Prime Minister Dimitar Glavchev extended his condolences to the families and colleagues of the fallen pilots, underscoring the profound impact of this loss on the Bulgarian military community.
Major General Petrov spoke highly of the deceased pilots, stating:
Major Dimitrov was one of Bulgaria's best and most experienced pilots. Lieutenant Dunkin was a great promise for the future. In view of the supreme sacrifice these pilots made in the line of duty, I declare September 15 a day of mourning in the armed forces. Flags will be lowered in memory of the fallen.
Canceled Airshow and Ongoing Investigation
The Graf Ignatievo Air Base was set to host significant aviation demonstrations on September 14, commemorating Bulgaria's 20th anniversary of joining NATO and the 35th anniversary of the MiG-29 aircraft's service with the Bulgarian Air Force. However, these celebrations have been put on hold in light of the tragic events.
As the investigation continues, authorities are working to piece together the exact sequence of events that led to the crash. The incident has raised questions about the safety protocols and equipment maintenance procedures in place for such high-risk maneuvers.
The loss of Major Dimitrov and Senior Lieutenant Dunkin has deeply affected the Bulgarian military and aviation community. Their untimely deaths serve as a stark reminder of the risks associated with military aviation, even during training exercises.
Conclusion
Two top Bulgarian pilots lost their lives in a tragic jet crash while practicing for an airshow. The incident occurred at Graf Ignatievo Air Base, resulting in the cancellation of the planned event. Military officials have launched an investigation into the crash while the nation mourns the loss of two skilled aviators. The accident highlights the inherent dangers of military aviation and the importance of stringent safety measures.
