Minister Bimal Ratnayake has stated that the Air Force plane which crashed in the Padeniya Minuwangate area was not due to an old or faulty aircraft. He confirmed this based on an investigation report provided by the Defense Secretary.
According to Minister Ratnayake, the accident occurred because the plane was flown by a group of trainee pilots, and the mishap was due to an error on their part. He emphasized that such incidents are common during training exercises.
He explained, “I received the report about the crash of an Air Force aircraft in Kurunegala, Padeniya, Minuwangate area through the Defense Secretary on the 21st. The report was likely prepared for the President or his media. The Defense Secretary, who is also a former Air Force Chief, stated there is no issue with the aircraft’s fuselage or engine. These planes are not old and they operate under proper licenses.”
He further clarified, “The trainees were conducting training exercises, and while there were no ‘L boards’ on the planes, they were indeed in training mode. It appears the accident was caused by a mistake made by the trainees. We are thankful that the two pilots survived. According to the report, there was no significant damage to the area, only some damage to trees. This is a routine incident that can occur during training in our country or anywhere else in the world. The technical report confirms that there was no other reason involved.”
