THE RAF has paused its Hawk T1 and T2 operations following a jet crash on Anglesey today (Wednesday, September 23).
Emergency services were called to the Pencarnisiog/Rhosneigr area of Anglesey, near the RAF Valley station, earlier this afternoon.
The crash took place this afternoon, with eyewitnesses reporting seeing a plane catch fire and crash shortly after take‑off, with both crew members ejecting safely.
Early information has been circulating rapidly across local Facebook groups and aviation communities, with eyewitnesses describing a “massive bang”, parachutes in the air, and a black plume of smoke rising from the mountainside.
North Wales Police, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, Wales Air Ambulance and Welsh Ambulance service were all in attendance.
Police said the pilots, who had been flying a T2 Hawk aircraft out of the station, are being treated for minor injuries.
The RAF said it has launched an investigation into the incident.
Read more
Much-loved Ugly House in Eryri fails to sell despite bidding battle
Ysbyty Gwynedd parking enforcement reviewed as park and ride 'considered'
Prison for Holyhead man, 28, caught with class C drugs in Caernarfon
In an update issued tonight, the RAF said it is pausing its Hawk T1 and T2 jet operations following today's incident.
A spokesperson said: "Following an incident involving an RAF Hawk T2 aircraft today, both pilots are receiving medical treatment. Their families are being supported.
The RAF has decided to temporarily pause Hawk T1 and T2 operations, as a precautionary measure, whilst investigations are ongoing."
The Prince of Wales served for three years as a search and rescue pilot at RAF Valley, which is home to No 4 Flying Training School.
RAF Valley is home to the Hawk T2 fleet, used to train the UK’s next generation of fast‑jet pilots.
Incidents involving ejection are rare and typically trigger a full military investigation.
Share