On August 21, 2025, a Malaysian F/A-18D Hornet fighter jet caught fire during takeoff at Kuantan Air Base. Both Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) pilots safely ejected and were rushed to Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital for assessment. The pilots, Major Mohamad Azhar Alang Kamarudin and Captain Mohamad Izzuddin Mohamad Salleh, sustained minor injuries and are now recovering.
The RMAF has temporarily suspended all F/A-18D Hornet operations and launched an investigation to determine the cause of the fire. The incident caused the closure of the Kuantan airport runway for several hours, and the public has been urged to avoid speculation while officials continue their inquiry.
Incident Details and Pilot Safety
The accident happened at approximately 9:05 pm during a night flying exercise when the twin-seat F/A-18D Hornet suddenly caught fire on the runway during takeoff. The pilots immediately initiated the emergency ejection protocol. Major Mohamad Azhar sustained minor burns and a back injury, while Captain Mohamad escaped with bruises and no serious injuries.
Both were stabilised and later discharged after treatment. Emergency responders quickly contained the fire and secured the airbase. The Air Force Chief, General Datuk Seri Muhamad Norazlan Aris, praised the pilots’ quick actions and the efficient response of the rescue teams that prevented a tragedy.
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim Statement
Malaysia’s Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has urged a “thorough investigation” into the Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) fighter jet crash while expressing his concern for the two servicemen involved.
“I express my sympathy to the pilots and co-pilots of the RMAF involved in the incident at the runway area of Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport (Kuantan Air Base) last night. I pray that both injured personnel are granted a speedy recovery and that all matters related to their treatment and rehabilitation are facilitated. The authorities are requested to conduct a thorough investigation to identify the cause of the incident and ensure that appropriate safety measures are taken,” he said on X.
Background and Investigation Underway
The F/A-18D Hornet jets have been integral to Malaysia’s air defence since their acquisition in the late 1990s. This particular aircraft was temporarily deployed to Kuantan Air Base while the home base’s runway was being refurbished.
This incident marks one of the rare serious accidents involving Malaysia’s Hornet fleet. The RMAF has convened a formal board of inquiry to investigate the incident, focusing on possible causes such as engine malfunction, foreign object debris on the runway, or a bird strike.
To ensure safety and facilitate cleanup, the Civil Aviation Authority of Malaysia (CAAM) temporarily closed the Kuantan airport runway until mid-afternoon the next day, causing cancellations and delays for several flights. Authorities continue to emphasize that all possible safety measures are being taken as the investigation proceeds.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian commends the professionalism displayed by the pilots and emergency teams in handling this frightening incident with minimal harm. Military aviation involves inherent dangers, and incidents like this underline the critical importance of rigorous safety standards, preventative maintenance, and transparent communication with the public.
We call for empathy and support for the armed forces during such incidents while recognising the need for thorough investigation and accountability to enhance fleet safety.
