The Bureau of South and Central Asian Affairs at the U.S. Department of State has expressed profound sadness over the tragic crash of a Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft in Dhaka’s Uttara area. The incident, which occurred on Monday, July 21, 2025, resulted in significant loss of life and injuries, particularly among young students.
In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Bureau stated, “We are deeply saddened by the tragic crash of the Bangladesh Air Force training aircraft in Uttara. Our thoughts are with those injured and the families who lost their loved ones during this difficult time.”
This message underscores the United States’ solidarity with Bangladesh as the nation grapples with the devastating consequences of the crash. It also conveys direct support for the injured victims and their bereaved families.
The incident involved a Bangladesh Air Force F-7 BGI training aircraft, which crashed onto the rooftop of Milestone School and College in Uttara shortly after takeoff from BAF Base Bir Uttom A. K. Khandker in Kurmitola. Initial reports indicated at least 20 fatalities, which has since tragically risen to over 30, including the pilot and numerous schoolchildren. More than 160 people were injured, many suffering from severe burns. Eyewitnesses described scenes of chaos, fire, and panic as the Chinese-made jet, reportedly experiencing a mechanical malfunction, plummeted into the school building while classes were in session.
Bangladesh’s interim government has declared Tuesday, July 22, 2025, a day of national mourning, with flags flying at half-mast across the country. An investigation committee has been formed by the Bangladesh Air Force to determine the exact cause of the accident. Local reports also indicate ongoing protests by students demanding accountability, compensation for victims, and the decommissioning of older aircraft.
