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RAF Grounds Hawk T2 After Trainer Crash Near RAF Valley

By Drooid · Sep 24, 2026, 2:42 AM UTC · How we work

Summary

RAF Hawk Crash

A Royal Air Force Hawk T2 trainer crashed near RAF Valley, Anglesey, after takeoff on 23 September 2026.
Both crew members ejected, parachuted to safety and suffered minor injuries, according to North Wales Police.
Emergency services arrived, declared the fire under control, and the RAF halted Hawk T1 and T2 training.
The T2 fleet of 28 aircraft has known reliability issues, prompting a £360 million trainer replacement plan announced in 2025.

Summary

DAIB Launches Inquiry

Defence Accident Investigation Branch will lead the inquiry, examining wreckage, flight data and maintenance records.
A Service Inquiry may follow, allowing senior RAF officials to review training or equipment issues.
Ejection seats designed for wide speed and altitude ranges caused high bodily strain, but injuries were minor.
The aircraft crashed in the rural Pencarnisiog field, sparing nearby homes and roads.

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RAF Hawk Crash

A Royal Air Force Hawk T2 trainer crashed near RAF Valley, Anglesey, after takeoff on 23 September 2026.
Both crew members ejected, parachuted to safety and suffered minor injuries, according to North Wales Police.
Emergency services arrived, declared the fire under control, and the RAF halted Hawk T1 and T2 training.
The T2 fleet of 28 aircraft has known reliability issues, prompting a £360 million trainer replacement plan announced in 2025.

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