T-34 Trainer Crashes, Two Pilots Killed; Training Suspended Pending Investigation

CNA reporter Hong Xue-guang and Zhang Yi-lian, Kaohsiung, June 2. An Air Force T-34 trainer crashed during a training mission today, resulting in the deaths of pilots Guo Jun-nan and Lu Ji-you. The Air Force Command stated that the aircraft crashed 21 minutes after takeoff and has ordered a suspension of all T-34C training missions under 'Operation Tian-an No. 4' to investigate the cause. The aircraft (tail number 3414) from the Gangshan Base was performing simulated engine failure training when it crashed at the north end of the runway. The Air Force held a press conference at 3:30 PM to provide details. The aircraft took off at 7:47 AM. At 8:08 AM, the tower was notified, and emergency crews were dispatched. The crash was confirmed at 8:10 AM, and the fire was extinguished by 8:53 AM, when the bodies of the pilots were found. Weather conditions were within training standards, and the aircraft had undergone a weekly inspection on April 9 with no major faults reported. A special investigation team has been formed to determine the cause.