Tragic AN-32 Crash at Jorhat Airbase Claims Lives of Five IAF Personnel

Guwahati, June 13: A tragic accident occurred at the Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam on Saturday, resulting in the deaths of five Indian Air Force (IAF) personnel. The AN-32 transport aircraft crashed while attempting to land around 10 AM. During the landing process, the aircraft caught fire, prompting immediate emergency responses from the Air Force and airport fire teams.

The Indian Air Force released a statement saying, “An accident involving an IAF AN-32 aircraft occurred during a routine flight in Jorhat, Assam, around 10 AM today. An investigation is currently underway at the crash site. The IAF appeals to everyone to refrain from speculation until initial findings are available.”

In a subsequent post, the IAF expressed its deep sorrow over the loss of five personnel in the crash. Squadron Leader Prashant Singh, Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar, Sergeant Jitendra Sharma, Agniveer Vayu Khemaram Kumawat, and Agniveer Vayu Danish Alam made the ultimate sacrifice while on duty. The IAF extended its heartfelt condolences to the grieving families and assured them of support during this difficult time.

A comprehensive investigation is expected to determine the cause of the accident. Technical experts and Air Force officials are examining the crash site while preliminary inquiries continue.

The AN-32, a twin-engine tactical transport aircraft of Soviet origin, has been in service with the Indian Air Force for decades. It plays a crucial role, especially in the remote areas of the Northeast and the Himalayan border regions.

This is not the first incident involving the AN-32. In June 2019, an IAF AN-32 aircraft that took off from Jorhat Air Force Station for Mechuka in Arunachal Pradesh went missing. After an extensive search operation, the wreckage was found in a hilly area of Arunachal Pradesh, and all 13 personnel on board were declared deceased.

Additionally, in July 2016, another AN-32 aircraft, en route from Chennai to Port Blair, went missing over the Bay of Bengal with 29 people on board. Despite one of India’s largest search operations, the aircraft was not located for several years, and all individuals aboard were presumed dead. In 2024, debris related to this aircraft was identified.

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