Key facts
- An RAF Hawk T2 jet crashed near Anglesey, Wales, on Wednesday.
- Two pilots ejected from the aircraft and were treated for minor injuries.
- The jet took off from RAF Valley and crashed less than two miles from the airbase.
- An investigation into the incident is underway.
- Local train lines were closed following the crash.
An RAF Hawk T2 jet crashed and exploded near Anglesey, Wales, on Wednesday shortly after its two pilots ejected during a training flight. The incident occurred just after the aircraft took off from RAF Valley, located on the west of the island. Witnesses reported seeing an orange flame on takeoff and the plane appearing to climb unevenly before the pilots ejected. The jet then nosedived and crashed near houses and agricultural buildings, causing a large fireball.
Both pilots parachuted to the ground and were reportedly treated for minor injuries. An RAF spokesperson confirmed the incident and stated an investigation is underway. The crash site in Pencarnisiog is less than two miles from RAF Valley, which is home to the air force's No 4 Flying Training School. Emergency services, including North Wales fire and rescue, North Wales police, and ambulance services, attended the scene. The fire was brought under control, and the public was asked to avoid the area.
Local train lines were closed as a result of the crash, with replacement buses operating. A local resident described seeing the plane on fire as it left the runway and noted its aggressive climb before the pilots ejected. The defence secretary, Wes Streeting, shared his thoughts with the pilots, and North Wales police confirmed no wider damage or injuries were reported at that stage.