An Royal Air Force (RAF) jet was deliberately steered to avoid built-up areas before its two pilots ejected moments before it crashed on the Isle of Anglesey, a senior commander has confirmed.

Gp Capt Gez Currie, Station Commander at RAF Valley, stated that the pilot's actions aimed to minimize harm to anyone on the ground. The Hawk T2 aircraft, which had departed from RAF Valley, fell to the ground near Pencarnisiog on Wednesday, coming perilously close to residential properties.

The two pilots, described as a trainee and a highly experienced instructor, were treated for minor injuries and are expected to make a complete recovery. They were reportedly in good spirits and with their families following the incident.

As a precautionary measure, the RAF has temporarily suspended all Hawk T1 and T2 flying operations while a formal investigation into the crash is underway. This pause includes the Red Arrows aerobatic display team, which utilizes the T1 variant.

Gp Capt Currie emphasized that the investigation is in its very early stages, making it premature to speculate on the cause. He noted that in his 30-year career, including his two-and-a-half years as station commander, this was the first such incident he had personally experienced.

Eyewitnesses reported seeing the pilots eject from the aircraft before it crashed in flames. Video footage circulating on social media appeared to show the ejection sequence followed by the jet's descent. Other footage captured smoke and flames emanating from the rear of the jet as it taxied before the crash.

Anglesey councillor Neville Evans described the incident as a "very lucky escape" given the proximity of the crash site to a village and a caravan park. Local resident Ollie Zalot expressed initial concern for those on the ground.

Mikey Kay, a BBC security analyst and former RAF member, suggested that while engine failure was a possibility, other causes could also be investigated. The Ministry of Defence defines a 'sortie' as a single mission or a complete trip.