Agra, India

An Indian Air Force MiG-29 fighter jet crashed near Agra on Monday (Nov 4) during a routine training sortie due to a "system malfunction", the IAF said. 

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During the incident, the pilot manoeuvred the aircraft to ensure no damage to life or property on the ground, before ejecting safely. 

Further, the IAF issued an inquiry to ascertain the cause of the crash. 

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The fighter jet, piloted by Wing Commander Manish Mishra, was conducting a routine training flight when the malfunction occurred and the jet crashed in Sonika village, within the Kagraul police limits of Agra district, around 4:20 pm (IST).

Also read: IAF's remotely piloted aircraft crashes in Jaisalmer, probe ordered

According to the defence officials, the plane was on its way to Agra when the incident happened. 

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Devesh Singh, Assistant Commissioner of Police (Sainya), Agra, said, "The pilot and co-pilot have been rescued and admitted to the district hospital", adding that he is at the site of the accident and a rescue operation is currently underway at the spot.

Meanwhile, Kagarol Station House Officer said, "There was a huge fire after the crash and we are trying to douse the fire." 

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He added that the plane took off from Adampur in Punjab and was flying to Agra for participating in an exercise. 

Earlier in September, a MiG-29 fighter aircraft had crashed near Rajasthan's Barmer.

The IAF stated that the crash happened because of a critical technical snag, forcing the pilot to eject. The pilot was safe and no loss of life or property was reported. 

(With inputs from agencies)