In the United Arab Emirates, a small aircraft (a two-seater glider) belonging to Al Jazeera Sports Club crashed into the sea near the coast of Ras Al Khaimah, resulting in the deaths of the pilot and a passenger. According to the UAE news agency WAM, the Civil Aviation Authority confirmed the incident on Sunday and stated that investigations are underway to determine the cause of the crash.
The authority’s Air Accident Investigation Sector was informed of the incident. As reported by Khaleej Times, the crash occurred shortly after takeoff around 2 PM on Sunday near the coast by Cove Rotana Hotel.
Dr. Suleman Al Majid’s father, Majid Mukarram, revealed that the victims included a 29-year-old Pakistani female pilot and his 26-year-old son, Indian national Dr. Suleman Al Majid.
“My son had rented the glider, and our family, including his parents and younger brother, were at the aviation club to witness the experience,” he shared. “Suleman’s younger brother was scheduled to take the next flight.”
The family stated that they were initially informed that the glider had lost radio contact, followed by a report of an emergency landing. However, upon reaching the hospital, they were told that both occupants were critically injured and that efforts were being made to save them.
“We were eagerly awaiting the New Year as a family and had planned to celebrate together. It feels like time has stopped for us. Suleman was the light of our lives. We don’t know how to move forward,” the family said.
The Civil Aviation Authority expressed condolences and sympathy to the families and loved ones of the deceased.
