Panaji / Indian Navy’s MiG 29K fighter jet crashes in Goa, Pilots eject safely

A MiG 29K fighter jet of the Indian Navy crashed shortly after taking off in Goa on Saturday, officials said.

Both the pilots, who are trainees, have ejected safely and a search and rescue operation is on, they added.

The MiG 29K is the aircraft carrier version of the MiG 29 stationed at INS Hansa Dabolim and designated for Aircraft Carrier INS Vikramaditya.

Mig 29 trainer aircraft was flying from ashore (Goa). During recovery, there was a bird hit&fire on right engine was observed. Both pilots ejected and are safe. Aircraft crashed in open/ safe area. No casualties reported. Further details being ascertained.

Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal: The MiG-29K trainer aircraft suffered an engine fire. The pilots Captain M Sheokhand and Lt Commander Deepak Yadav ejected safely.