'Sounded like missile strikes': M'sian Air Force fighter jet crashes during takeoff in Pahang

The Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) confirmed that one of its F/A-18 Hornet fighter jets was involved in an accident at 9:05pm on Aug. 21.

Investigations are ongoing

The incident took place on the runway of Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport (RMAF Kuantan Air Base), Bernama reported.

In a statement, the RMAF affirmed that immediate action is being taken and they will be providing further updates on the incident in due time.

They also advised the public against spreading unverified claims or gossip.

According to Pahang police chief Yahaya Othman, both the air force pilot and co-pilot are safe and were sent to Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital for further examination.

Yahaya also confirmed that the incident took place during take-off.

Witnesses recall hearing the crash

The Star reported that one of the witnesses who heard the crash described them as sounding like missile strikes.

61-year-old Mazlan Abdullah, who was at a food stall opposite the Kuantan air base, told The Star that he heard two explosions and saw flames from the area.

"When I looked towards the airfield, there were flames. Then came the second explosion, which caused the fire to spread further, and there was also a burning smell," Mazlan said.

Another witness, 26-year-old electrical engineer Khairul Azli Syahmie Abdul Aziz, said that he had heard the blasts from his house, which was located about 500m to 1km from the scene.

However, he initially dismissed it as he assumed that it was the RMAF was conducting training.

Anwar called for thorough probe into the incident

In a post on X on Aug. 22, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim called on the authorities to conduct a thorough investigation to determine the cause of the accident.

According to The Star, Anwar urged the authorities to ensure that the necessary safety measures are being implemented.

He also expressed his sympathy for both the pilot and co-pilot involved in the incident.

"I pray that both injured members will have a speedy recovery and that all their treatment and recovery matters will be facilitated smoothly," Anwar stated.

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