A Chinese-built K-8 trainer aircraft belonging to the Sri Lanka Air Force (SLAF) crashed in the Wariyapola area, Kurunegala, Mar. 21st. The aircraft, which is used for advanced pilot training at the SLAF Base in Katunayake, was undertaking a routine training exercise at the time of the incident.
Fortunately, the two pilots on board – a Chief Training Instructor pilot and a trainee pilot – successfully ejected from the aircraft before it crashed. They landed safely at the Minuwangoda College premises in Padeniya, Kurunegala, using parachutes. Both pilots were immediately evacuated and are currently receiving treatment at the Kurunegala Teaching Hospital.
The aircraft took off from Katunayake Air Base at 7:27 a.m. and the crash occurred around 7:55 a.m.. Following the incident, Sri Lanka Air Force Commander Air Marshal Bandu Edirisinghe has appointed a seven-member special investigation committee to determine the cause of the accident. Authorities are currently examining potential mechanical failures or external factors that may have led to the crash.
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