Photo: Flt Lt Paul Heasman RAF/MOD
The Royal Air Force has temporarily suspended Hawk flying operations following the crash of a Hawk T2 shortly after take-off from RAF Valley in North Wales.
The aircraft crashed on 23 September during a training sortie. Both crew members ejected safely and were taken to hospital; the RAF said they were doing well and expected to make a full recovery. The cause of the accident is under investigation.
As a precaution, flying has been paused across both the Hawk T2 fleet used for advanced fast-jet training and the Hawk T1 operated by the Red Arrows. The incident is the first reported loss of a Hawk T2 in RAF service.
RAF Valley is a key part of the UK’s fast-jet training pipeline. The Hawk T2 provides advanced tactical training before pilots progress to frontline aircraft including the Typhoon and F-35 Lightning.
The duration of the flying pause will depend on the outcome of the initial investigation.
Source: Royal Air Force / UK Ministry of Defence
UK Defence Secretary statement following the accident
Editorial note: AI-assisted editing.
Photo credit:
Photo: Flt Lt Paul Heasman RAF/MOD
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