On July 21, 2025, tragedy struck Dhaka’s Milestone School and College in the Uttara district when a Bangladesh Air Force F‑7BGI training fighter jet crashed into its campus during school hours. The aircraft took off from BAF Base Bir Uttom A. K. Khandker at approximately 13:06 local time. Moments later, it plummeted into a school building, igniting a massive fireball and leaving parts of the structure in ruins.

Death Toll, Injuries, and Immediate Impact

The crash claimed the lives of at least 19 individuals, including students, teachers, and the pilot. Over 100 people predominantly children suffered serious injuries, many with severe burns. Emergency teams, including firefighters and military personnel, rushed to the scene to control the blaze and rescue survivors. Local rickshaws and ambulances transported the injured to the National Institute of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Dhaka Medical College, and other nearby hospitals. Witnesses described a scene of utter chaos, with “fire and smoke everywhere” and frightened parents streaming into the area.

Eyewitness Accounts: Moments of Horror

Teachers and staff recounted a sudden explosion that jolted class sessions. One teacher recalled collecting students at the gate when an explosion erupted behind them, leaving a “thick cloud of smoke” and flames engulfing the building. Visuals from the site showed a deep crater, mangled jet debris embedded in the structure, and a damaged canteen roof.

Who Was Affected?

The campus serves approximately 2,000 students ranging from kindergarten to 12th grade. Among the casualties were a third‑grade student and teenagers aged between 12 and 14. Multiple faculty members also lost their lives or sustained serious injuries. The pilot, identified as Flight Lieutenant Mohammed Toukir Islam, was confirmed dead, and remains are being processed following official protocols.

Response by Government and Authorities

Bangladesh’s interim leader, Mohammad Yunus, expressed deep sorrow and declared a thorough investigation into the crash. The government pledged support to affected families, including medical assistance and financial aid. The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) and national aviation authorities have launched a full inquiry into potential mechanical failures, training protocol deficiencies, or pilot error. The government also declared a day of national mourning on July 22.

Investigations, Safety, and Accountability

Authorities are examining aircraft maintenance logs, pilot training records, and flight data to determine the crash’s cause. Investigators are studying whether weather conditions, equipment malfunction, or structural failure played a role. Military engineers and aviation safety experts are leading the investigation, with cooperation from police and forensic teams. Public demand is mounting for systemic changes in safety practices especially given a similarly horrific crash in India just weeks earlier.

Broader Implications for Aviation and Education

This disaster is among the deadliest aviation accidents on Dhaka soil in recent memory. It highlights urgent concerns regarding the operation of military aircraft over civilian areas and the proximity of airfields to densely populated zones. Experts are calling for:

  • Mandatory safety buffers between military bases and urban infrastructure
  • Enhanced flight safety protocols
  • Emergency preparedness drills in schools
  • Transparent investigations with accountability for any lapses

Additionally, renewed attention is being placed on aviation training standards and equipment maintenance protocols.

Path Forward: Healing and Prevention

In the coming days, the focus will shift to comprehensive investigations, trauma counseling for victims and families, and reconstruction of damaged school facilities. Authorities have vowed to expedite support for medical treatment and aid to bereaved families.

Meanwhile, parents and community leaders are rallying around students and staff, launching fundraising campaigns, and demanding oversight to prevent future tragedies.

Conclusion: A Nation in Shock

Bangladesh is mourning a national tragedy that has shaken its capital and raised serious questions about military aviation safety in civilian zones. With 19 lives lost and over a hundred injured, the incident demands swift accountability, systemic reform, and community healing. As Dhaka begins recovery, the hope remains that lessons learned will prevent another catastrophe.