An Indian Air Force (IAF) microlite aircraft experienced a technical malfunction during a routine training flight from Air Force Station Bamrauli near Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh on 21 january 2026, . The two-seater aircraft, used for pilot training, reconnaissance, and survey missions, had to make an emergency landing around 12:15 hours.

While flying over the Phaphamau and Sangam areas, the engine reportedly failed, prompting the pilots to activate the recovery system and guide the microlite to a controlled landing in an uninhabited pond near K P College in the George Town police area. Both pilots were unharmed, and no damage to civilian life or property was reported. Deputy Commissioner of Police (City) Manish Shandilya credited the pilots’ swift action for preventing a potential disaster.

Local police, fire personnel, and residents quickly assisted in the rescue, with divers ensuring the pilots were safely retrieved. Authorities have cordoned off the area for recovery and investigation. The IAF confirmed the incident on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the aircraft experienced a technical malfunction during a routine sortie and was safely force-landed without harm to civilians or property. A Court of Inquiry has been initiated to determine the cause of the malfunction, examining flight data, maintenance logs, and technical records.

Microlite aircraft are lightweight, versatile planes used to train novice pilots in low-risk environments, including simulations of emergencies like engine failures. This incident highlights the risks inherent in military aviation training and the importance of rigorous pilot training, which enabled a precise water landing under challenging conditions.

Prayagraj, near AF Station Bamrauli, often sees such training operations. Local authorities and residents responded swiftly, reflecting strong civil-military coordination. Preliminary findings suggest an isolated technical fault rather than a systemic issue. Both pilots are undergoing routine medical checks, and training operations are expected to continue with minimal disruption. The incident also underscores the need for enhanced pre-flight checks and redundancy measures, especially when operating microlites near populated or sensitive areas like the Sangam. No further details on the aircraft model or specific malfunction have been released pending the inquiry.