RAF Hawk T2 took off with “missing fuel cap”, report claims

An investigation into the loss of a Hawk T2 trainer aircraft has reportedly found the jet took off with a “missing fuel cap”, according to new claims.

The two-seat aircraft crashed near the village of Llanfaelog on Anglesey on 23 September after getting into difficulty moments after take-off. Both pilots ejected safely and were treated for what were believed to be minor injuries.

According to The Sun, investigators have found that the fuel cap was “left off” the jet before the flight. The RAF has not publicly confirmed the reported finding and the investigation remains ongoing.

Advance has contacted the RAF for comment.

The Hawk T2 had been carrying out a test flight following an earlier incident involving the aircraft on 11 September.

Crash prompted RAF to suspend flying operations for Hawk fleets

The aircraft was destroyed when it crashed into farmland close to Pencarnisiog and the Afallon Caravan Park near Llanfaelog.

Both crew members escaped by parachute before the aircraft plunged to the ground and exploded in a large fireball.

The accident prompted the RAF to temporarily suspend flying operations across both its Hawk T1 and Hawk T2 fleets while initial checks were carried out.

The suspension was lifted on 8 October, although the formal investigation remains underway.

The crash also renewed attention on the future of the Hawk fleet. Air Chief Marshal Sir Rich Knighton has previously voiced concerns about the aircraft’s reliability and support arrangements, saying he would like to replace the Hawk T2 as soon as possible with a more capable and dependable training platform.

Hawk remains central to RAF fast-jet training

The Hawk T2 forms a critical part of the RAF’s fast-jet training pipeline, preparing pilots for frontline aircraft such as the Eurofighter Typhoon.

It entered operational service with the RAF in July 2009 and replaced the legacy Hawk T1 fleet in the advanced fast-jet training role. 

Based at RAF Valley, the aircraft is a dual-seat, transonic advanced jet trainer fitted with a glass cockpit and modern, digital avionics.

Its systems can simulate radar operations, electronic warfare threats and air-to-air intercept missions without the cost of using frontline fighters.

Future of RAF Jet Training System programme

The Ministry of Defence plans to replace the Hawk fleet through its future Jet Training System programme.

Market engagement for the new training system began earlier this year, with the government allocating funding to keep the Hawk T1 and T2 fleets operating safely until a successor enters service.

Although the Hawk T2 was previously expected to remain in RAF service for many years, the MoD has indicated that the aircraft no longer meets future training requirements and is seeking an earlier transition to a replacement system.