Asim Jawad's 'self-sacrifice' gets salute across Facebook

Netizens are mourning the death of Squadron Leader Asim Jawad, who was killed after a training aircraft of the Bangladesh Air Force (YAK130) crashed into the Karnaphuli River on Thursday. Along with expressing condolences, Facebook users are pouring tributes to pilot Asim Jawad's bravery and self-sacrifice.

A video of the time of the plane crash went viral on social media platforms. Based on the video and eyewitness accounts, netizens believe that Asim tried his best to protect the aircraft without prioritizing his own safety. Asim even steered the burning aircraft towards the river to avoid damage to localities and settlements.

A press briefing by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) said Asim and his co-pilot finally managed to land the aircraft safely, avoiding damage to the localities.

Air Force's Yak-130 (YAK 130) training aircraft crashed 'due to a mechanical fault', ISPR said.

Pilot Asim and co-pilot Sohan parachuted down before the training fighter jet of Bangladesh Air Force crashed into the Karnaphuli River in Chattogram on Thursday around 11am. Then they were taken to the hospital. Later, Asim succumbed to his injuries around 12:30pm while undergoing treatment at BNS Issa Khan Hospital in Patenga.

Asim, son of Dr. Md Aman Ullah and Nilufa Akhtar Khanam, was born on 20th March 1992 in Gopalpur village under Saturia thana in Manikganj district.

After completing his HSC from Savar Cantonment Public College in 2009, he joined the Bangladesh Air Force on 10 January 2010 and was commissioned in the GD (P) wing on 01 December 2011 with the Sword of Honour, the highest award for cadets.

Later, he completed his BSc from Bangladesh University of Professionals (BUP) in 2012.
During his services, he held important positions in various bases and units of the Air Force. He received 'Mofiz Trophy', 'Chief of Air Force Trophy' and Chief of Air Staff's Certificate in recognition of his professional skills and achievements.

He also received the 'Chief of Air Staff's Trophy for Best in Flying (Indian Air Force)' in recognition of his success by attending courses in the Indian Air Force.

He also participated in various professional courses at home and abroad and completed them successfully.

He left behind his wife, a daughter, a son and a host of well-wishers to mourn his death.