“Missing fuel cap” linked to RAF trainer jet crash, according to reports

The UK Royal Air Force’s Hawk T2 trainer jet that crashed in Wales in September reportedly took off with an unsecured fuel cap, according to new reports.

The aircraft crashed near RAF Valley on Anglesey, Wales, on 23 September after catching fire moments after take-off. Both pilots ejected safely and escaped with minor injuries.

According to a report in The Sun, investigators believe the fuel cap was left off the RAF jet. However, the investigation has not yet reached a final conclusion on the causes of the accident and remains ongoing.

An RAF spokesperson said: “The Defence Accident Investigation Branch is currently investigating the incident involving a Hawk T2 aircraft crash, which occurred in Anglesey on 23 September 2026.

“It would be inappropriate to comment further while this investigation is ongoing.”

Pilots steered jet away from nearby properties

Dramatic images from the scene showed the aircraft engulfed in flames after impact. The crash happened close to the village of Llanfaelog, but the pilots were able to steer the jet away from populated areas before ejecting.

RAF Valley station commander Group Captain Gez Currie said the crew directed the aircraft towards open ground to reduce the risk to people on the ground.

Speaking at the time he said: “The aircraft would have been aimed in a direction that the pilot believed was open field, in order to avoid built-up areas and anybody on the ground.”

RAF suspended flying operations

Following the crash, the RAF temporarily grounded all Hawk T1 and Hawk T2 aircraft as a precaution while initial checks were carried out.

Operations resumed on 8 October, although the formal investigation remains ongoing.

Hawk T2 plays key role in RAF pilot training

The Hawk T2 is the RAF’s advanced fast-jet trainer, used to prepare pilots for frontline aircraft such as the Eurofighter Typhoon. The fleet is based at RAF Valley and plays a key role in training the next generation of fighter pilots.

The loss of the aircraft comes at a time when the UK’s Ministry of Defence is already planning to replace the Hawk fleet with a new jet training system.

However, the Hawk T2 is expected to remain an important part of RAF pilot training until a successor enters service.