Crashed BSF aircraft was over 21 years old: Government

NEW DELHI: The Border Security Force aircraft that crashed in the national capital last year was over 21 years old and a probe in underway into the accident that left 10 personnel dead.

"Super King B-200 (with) registration no VT-BSA that crashed on December 22, 2015 was 21 years and 7 months old. The accident is under investigation by Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau," Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said in a written reply in Rajya Sabha.

The Minister said "any aircraft can continue to fly as long as it is airworthy and certified to be so."

"At present, BSF air wing has two AVRO aircraft which are more than 20 years of age," he said.

He added that aircraft procurement is done from time to time on need assessment and availability of resources.