A Hawk T2 training jet crashed moments after taking off from RAF Valley near Rhosneigr, Anglesey, on its first test flight following repairs. The pilot steered the aircraft into an open field to avoid populated areas before both crew ejected, sustaining only minor injuries. The incident prompted the RAF to suspend Hawk operations as a precautionary measure whilst investigations continue.

The aircraft, flown by an experienced instructor and trainee pilot, crashed nose-first into the ground with an enormous fireball. A nearby caravan park with 30 units narrowly escaped disaster, with debris landing just yards away but most caravans unoccupied at the time. Local sources indicate the plane had been repaired after a faulty component issue, with pilots recognising problems almost immediately after takeoff. The Hawk T2, manufactured by BAE Systems and used to train RAF pilots since 1976, is a high-performance two-seat training jet designed to simulate frontline combat aircraft.