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A trainer microlight Indian Air Force plane is seen crash landed in a pond with both the pilots safely rescued in Prayagraj, India, Wednesday, Jan. 21, 2026. (AP Photo)
A two-seater microlite aircraft of the Indian Air Force was involved in an accident in Uttar Pradesh’s Prayagraj on Wednesday, according to defence sources. They confirmed that both the pilot and the other crew member onboard are safe.
VIDEO | Uttar Pradesh: A trainee aircraft has reportedly crashed into a water body in Prayagraj. Rescue operations underway. More details are awaited.#Prayagraj
(Full video available on PTI Videos – https://t.co/n147TvrpG7) pic.twitter.com/r62ZjtoRhh
— Press Trust of India (@PTI_News) January 21, 2026
Microlite aircraft are small aircraft typically used for training, bird reconnaissance, and survey operations. The aircraft was on a routine sortie when the accident occurred. Defence sources said the recovery system was initiated, ensuring that both crew members remained unharmed.
The aircraft was later recovered from an open area located away from the main city. Officials said the site has been cordoned off by authorities in Prayagraj, and an investigation into the incident is currently underway.
Providing further details, Deputy Commissioner of Police (City) Manish Shandilya said the aircraft was flying towards the Phaphamau and Sangam areas when it developed a technical snag in its engine. He said there were two pilots onboard, who carried out a controlled and safe landing in a pond near K P College under the jurisdiction of the George Town police station.
With assistance from the police, fire brigade personnel, and local residents, both pilots were rescued safely. Shandilya added that divers played a key role in the rescue operation. He confirmed that there were no reports of casualties or damage resulting from the incident.
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