Kuantan: A Royal Malaysian Air Force (RMAF) F/A-18D Hornet was involved in an accident on the runway of Sultan Haji Ahmad Shah Airport, also known as RMAF Kuantan Air Base, at 9.05 pm tonight. The incident took place during take-off, involving an air force pilot and co-pilot, both of whom are reported to be safe.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, the RMAF has issued a statement indicating that immediate action is being taken in response to the accident. Further updates on the incident are promised to be announced in due course. The RMAF has urged the public to refrain from spreading speculation or unverified reports concerning the incident.

Pahang police chief Datuk Seri Yahaya Othman confirmed the safety of both the pilot and co-pilot, noting that they have been taken to Tengku Ampuan Afzan Hospital for examination. The police chief confirmed that the incident occurred during the take-off phase of the flight.

Meanwhile, video footage circulating on social media platforms shows the aircraft’s engine catching fire during take-off. This incident comes as the RMAF continues to operate a fleet of eight F/A-18D Hornets, which were originally acquired from McDonnell Douglas, now Boeing, in 1997.