The aircraft, one of the RAF’s advanced jet trainers based at RAF Valley, entered a slow‑speed, high‑angle‑of‑attack maneuver shortly after take‑off, stalled and began to porpoise before the crew ejected, according to video footage captured at the scene.
The jet struck the countryside near homes, burst into flames and produced a thick plume of black smoke. Local police confirmed that the two pilots suffered only minor injuries and that there were no reports of additional casualties or property damage.
Emergency responders, including the Coastguard and Wales Air Ambulance helicopters, arrived quickly, and police have asked the public to stay clear of the crash site while the investigation continues.
The Royal Air Force confirmed the incident involved a Hawk T2 from No. 4 Flying Training School at RAF Valley and said an inquiry is under way. In a statement the RAF added that both pilots are receiving medical care, their families are being supported, and, as a precaution, all Hawk T1 and T2 training flights have been temporarily halted.
The crash follows a series of technical problems that have plagued the Hawk fleet in recent years, including engine removals in 2022, a temporary grounding of the 28‑aircraft fleet in early 2023 after an engine‑related mishap, and calls by Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton in 2024 to replace the type. The Hawk T2 is slated for retirement by 2040, but officials said no link has yet been established between those past issues and Wednesday’s accident.
Investigators are working to determine the cause of the crash and the nature of the flight, and the wreckage has been secured at the site. The RAF has not provided further comment pending the outcome of the inquiry.