Two Pilots Killed in T-34 Trainer Crash; DPP Demands Thorough Investigation

Central News Agency, Taipei, June 2. An Air Force T-34 trainer crashed today during a simulated engine failure training flight, resulting in the deaths of two lieutenant colonel pilots. Chuang Jui-hsiung, secretary-general of the DPP legislative caucus, expressed condolences to the families and demanded that the Ministry of National Defense, particularly the Air Force, conduct a thorough investigation into training, maintenance, and flight safety management mechanisms. Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Major General Sun Li-fang confirmed the incident at Gangshan Air Base. Air Force Commander General Cheng Jung-feng has arrived at the scene, and Defense Minister Wellington Koo has ordered a full investigation to prevent similar incidents while providing support to the families. Chuang emphasized that ensuring the safest possible environment for pilots is more critical than purchasing advanced weaponry, as skilled personnel are essential for operations.