RAF Valley Hawk T2 Crash: Two Pilots Eject Safely Over Anglesey
By The Aviation Hub
3 min read
Two pilots ejected from an RAF Hawk T2 training jet before it crashed in Anglesey, close to RAF Valley in North Wales.
Both aircrew parachuted clear of the aircraft and are now receiving treatment for what police describe as minor injuries, as per the BBC.
What Happened Near RAF Valley, Anglesey
The crash took place in the Pencarnisiog area of Anglesey.
North Wales Police confirmed that the aircraft was an RAF Hawk T2, the advanced jet trainer that operates from RAF Valley.
Emergency services responded quickly. Helicopters from HM Coastguard and the Wales Air Ambulance attended the scene alongside ground crews.
In a statement, North Wales Police said: “Two pilots are being treated for what are thought to be minor injuries and at this stage there are no reports of any wider damage or injuries.”
The force also urged the public to stay away. “Please avoid the area until further notice,” it added.
The RAF Response
The Royal Air Force has confirmed the incident in Anglesey.
However, it has so far released very little detail about the circumstances of the crash.
“An incident involving an RAF T2 Hawk aircraft, flying out of RAF Valley.
An investigation is under way and we will not comment further at this time,” the service said.
The Ministry of Defence has also been approached for comment.
At this stage, there is no indication of what caused the aircraft to come down.
Why RAF Valley Matters
RAF Valley sits on the western coast of Anglesey and is home to No. 4 Flying Training School.
As a result, it plays a central role in preparing aircrew for frontline service.
Student pilots fly the Hawk T2 in the advanced stage of fast jet training.
Consequently, many of the pilots who go on to fly the Typhoon and the F-35B pass through the base.
The Hawk T2 features a glass cockpit that mirrors the systems found on modern combat aircraft.
For this reason, it allows students to train on sensors and displays before they progress to operational types.
A Successful Ejection
Both aircrew escaped using the ejection seats fitted to the Hawk that ended up crashing in Anglesey.
These seats allow crews to leave the aircraft safely across a wide range of speeds and altitudes.
Ejecting from a jet places enormous strain on the body.
Even so, the early reports of minor injuries suggest both pilots escaped in the best possible circumstances.
Equally significant, police reported no wider damage on the ground.
Anglesey is a largely rural island, and the crash appears to have avoided homes and roads.
What Comes Next Following Anglesey Accident
An investigation is now under way.
The Defence Accident Investigation Branch typically leads inquiries into serious military aviation incidents, and a Service Inquiry may follow.
Investigators will examine the wreckage, flight data and maintenance records.
They will also speak to both pilots about the final moments of the flight.
Meanwhile, the public should continue to avoid the Pencarnisiog area while emergency crews and military personnel secure the site.
The Aviation Hub will continue to follow the RAF Valley investigation and will update this article as more information becomes available.
For more coverage like this, visit our Emergency and Accident Hub.
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