Overview
- A Hawk T2 training jet crashed near Afallon Caravan Park on 23 September 2026 after a short test flight, and both pilots ejected and survived with minor injuries.
- Multiple news reports say investigators established the aircraft was missing a fuel filler cap and that its absence is a key line of inquiry.
- Sources close to the inquiry have suggested ground‑crew responsibility for the absent cap, though officials have not publicly confirmed who or what caused the accident.
- The Defence Accident Investigation Branch is carrying out a formal probe and the RAF has declined further comment while the investigation remains open.
- The accident prompted a temporary grounding of the Hawk fleet that ended in early October and has revived scrutiny of Hawk maintenance, past faults and the impact on pilot training and local safety.