Nashik (Maharashtra): An Indian Air Force fighter jet, Sukhoi SU-31 crashed near Nashik while on a test sortie but both pilots on board ejected safely.
According to official sources, the occurred around 11 am when the jet, manufactured by the HAL under license, was seen hurtling down and seconds later crashing in open fields near the Wavi-Thushi village, around 30 km from here.
According to preliminary information, the crash may have occurred due to a technical glitch, but the pilots on board managed to eject safely.
The pilots were on deputation to the Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd, which is constructing these sophisticated multi-role aircraft under licence from Russia.
The aircraft is believed to be destroyed completely.
Immediately after the crash, top IAF officials and the police have rushed to the crash site in Maharashtra.