Ambala, June 27 (TIWN) It was narrow escape for an Indian Air Force Jaguar pilot on Thursday in an air base here when a bird hit the aircraft, officials said.

Small practice bombs jettisoned by the jet has also been recovered.  Initial reports elaborated on a loud explosion near the residential area and airforce base wall. Eyewitnesses also observed something falling from the aircraft.

Billows of black smoke immediately spread around the area. Ambulance, fire brigade, and Air Force officers rushed to the scene.   A search operation has been initiated in the residential areas by Air Force officials and local police.