An Indian Air Force AN-32 transport aircraft crashed while attempting to land at Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam on Saturday [1].
The incident highlights ongoing safety concerns regarding the IAF's transport fleet and the risks associated with landing operations in the region.
Five crew members died in the accident [1]. The aircraft caught fire and split in two upon impact at the facility, which is also known as Roureah Airport [1], [2]. Reports regarding the status of the pilot varied, with some sources stating the pilot is feared dead and others noting the co-pilot survived [1], [3].
"The aircraft crashed while attempting to land at Jorhat Air Force Station," an IAF spokesperson said [2].
The cause of the crash remains unknown. The Indian Air Force has launched an investigation into the circumstances that led to the aircraft splitting in two during its approach [2].
Emergency responders arrived at the scene following the crash on June 13, 2026 [1]. The AN-32 is a twin-engine transport aircraft used by the IAF for various logistical, and transport missions across India [1].
“Five crew members died in the accident.”
The crash of an AN-32 transport aircraft underscores the critical nature of landing phase safety for the Indian Air Force. As the IAF continues to investigate the cause of this specific accident, the event may prompt a review of the operational airworthiness and safety protocols for the aging AN-32 fleet to prevent further loss of life and equipment.
