New Delhi: An Indian Navy aircraft crashed on Saturday a short distance from the Dabolim international airport, soon after it took off for a training mission. The plane carried two pilots who ejected to safety, an official said. The aircraft involved in the crash was a trainer version of the fighter jet. "The pilots ejected from the plane before it crashed and are safe," an official said requesting anonymity.

Sharing further details, Goa Airport sources said that the Navy aircraft crashed in South Goa at around 12 noon, shortly after the aircraft took off from the Dabolim International Airport. MiG-29K trainer aircraft was flying from ashore in Goa. During recovery, there was a bird hit and fire on the right engine was observed. The aircraft crashed in an open and safe area. No casualties reported, according to Indian Navy.

Watch | MiG-29K fighter jet crashes in Goa, both pilots evacuate safely



Navy Spokesperson Commander Vivek Madhwal was quoted as saying, "The MiG-29K trainer aircraft suffered an engine fire. The pilots Captain M Sheokhand and Lt Commander Deepak Yadav ejected safely."

The Indian Navy along with the district administration officials are in the process of locating the wreckage near Verna plateau in South Goa district.