What happened?
A China‑made F‑7 BGI training jet from the Bangladesh Air Force crashed into the Milestone School and College campus in Uttara, Dhaka, at around 1:06 pm on July 21, 2025, shortly after departing from Kurmitola Air Base on a routine training mission. The aircraft experienced a technical failure, and the pilot attempted to steer it away from crowded areas. Tragically, the jet struck a classroom building housing primary-grade children and burst into flames on impact.
Casualties & Impact
- At least 19 people were killed, including the pilot and children; some reports mention about 16 students among the deceased.
- Over 160 injured, many suffering severe burn injuries; hospitals in Dhaka are treating dozens in critical condition.
- Rescue operations involved firefighters, ambulances, Air Force helicopters, military personnel and residents.
Responding Officials & Medical Facilities
- Brigadier General Zahed Kamal, Director General of Fire Service, confirmed recovering 19 bodies and at least 50 critically injured at the scene.
- Md Sayedur Rahman, assistant to the health ministry, stated 72 hospitalised and earlier fatality reports of 16; treatments underway at CMH, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, and the National Institute of Burn & Plastic Surgery Al Jazeera.
- Eight patients are reportedly in critical condition, according to doctors at NIBPS.
- Pilot Flight Lieutenant Mohammad Towkir Islam—reportedly executed control efforts—was initially treated at CMH but later succumbed to his injuries.
Eyewitness Accounts
- A teacher described seeing “a big bang” as the jet crashed and immediately caught fire in the school building used by primary classes.
- Student Fahim Hossain (Grade 11) recalled it had hit just 10 feet from him, collapsing a two-storey structure.
- Another teacher noted bodies being moved in body bags to CMH from the ruined classrooms Al Jazeera.
- Rafiqa Taha, a 16‑year‑old student (not on campus during the crash), shared her horror: “I was terrified watching videos… My God! It’s my school.” .
Government Response
- The interim government has declared July 22 a national day of mourning, with flags at half-mast domestically and at overseas missions
- Chief Adviser Prof. Muhammad Yunus expressed deep sorrow and pledged a full investigation, stating Bangladesh will “take necessary measures” and extend support to victims. The Sun.
Investigation Underway
A military committee has been formed to investigate the cause of the crash, focusing on a technical malfunction shortly after takeoff.
Context & Background
- The F‑7 BGI is the most advanced member of China’s Chengdu J‑7/MiG‑21 family, acquired by BAF between 2011–2013.
- With approximately 2,000 students aged 6–17 at Milestone School & College, the campus is usually bustling during weekday classes.
- This marks one of the deadliest air accidents in Dhaka, coming just over a month after the Air India crash in Ahmedabad, India, which killed 260 people.
What’s Next
- Ongoing rescue efforts continue as hospitals ramp up burn and trauma care.
- Awaiting the official accident report from the defence ministry’s committee.
- Nationwide mourning and support systems are in place for families and the injured.
- Discussions are expected on aviation safety reforms in military flight operations.
This remains a developing story. For now, Bangladesh mourns as rescue teams and authorities work tirelessly on the aftermath.
