ANGLESEY, WALES — An RAF Hawk T2 advanced jet trainer crashed shortly after takeoff from RAF Valley on Anglesey on Wednesday afternoon, 23 September 2026. Both pilots ejected from the aircraft and landed safely by parachute. They were later treated for minor injuries.
The crash occurred in the Pencarnisiog area, roughly a mile inland from RAF Valley. Witnesses reported seeing flames from the aircraft during its climb before it pitched up sharply, rolled and descended into a field. The crash caused a large fire and black smoke.
Emergency services, including North Wales Police, North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, the Welsh Ambulance Service, a Helimed air ambulance and a Coastguard helicopter, responded to the scene. Police said there were no reports of injuries or wider damage on the ground.
An RAF spokesperson confirmed that an incident involving a Hawk T2 flying from RAF Valley had occurred near Anglesey and said an investigation was underway. Defence Secretary Wes Streeting also said an investigation was in progress and that his thoughts were with the pilots.
The Hawk T2 is a two-seat advanced jet trainer built by BAE Systems and powered by a Rolls-Royce/Turbomeca Adour Mk.951 turbofan. RAF Valley's No. 4 Flying Training School uses the aircraft to train pilots for frontline aircraft including the Eurofighter Typhoon and F-35B.
The RAF previously grounded its Hawk T2 fleet in January 2023 following an engine-related incident at Valley. Senior RAF officials have also previously raised concerns about the aircraft's availability and engine reliability. The RAF has been working on plans for a successor to the Hawk T2.
The cause of Wednesday's crash has not yet been released. An investigation will determine the circumstances that led to the accident and whether any aircraft or engine issue was involved.
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