An Indian Air Force (IAF) AN-32 transport aircraft crashed and caught fire while attempting to land at the Air Force Station in Assam’s Jorhat on Saturday morning, prompting an emergency response inside the military base.
According to initial reports, the aircraft went down within the premises of the airbase during the landing process. Thick smoke was seen rising from the crash site after the impact triggered a fire.
Emergency response teams were immediately rushed to the spot to control the flames and secure the area.
In a brief statement, the Indian Air Force confirmed the incident and said an investigation had been launched to determine the cause of the crash.
“A military aircraft crashed at the Air Force Station in Jorhat, Assam, during landing,” the IAF said.
Casualties Yet to Be Officially Confirmed
Officials have not yet released confirmed information regarding casualties or injuries. However, some reports citing sources claimed that the pilot of the aircraft was feared dead.
“The accident occurred while the aircraft was attempting to land at the airbase. There are fears that the pilot may have lost his life in the crash,” sources were quoted as saying.
Authorities have not officially confirmed the number of crew members on board or their condition.
Rescue operations and assessment work are continuing at the crash site.
What is the AN-32 Aircraft?
The AN-32 is one of the Indian Air Force’s key transport aircraft and is mainly used for logistical support, troop movement, and supply operations, particularly in difficult and remote areas.
Known for operating in extreme weather conditions, including high-altitude and tropical regions, the aircraft has remained an important part of India’s military transport fleet for decades.
The Roureah Air Force Station in Jorhat is considered a strategically important military base in Northeast India and plays a major role in air operations across the region.
Recent Military Aircraft Crashes Raise Concerns
The incident comes just months after another tragic Indian Air Force accident in Assam.
In March this year, a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet crashed during a routine sortie from Jorhat Air Force Station in Karbi Anglong district, killing both pilots on board.
The cause of Saturday’s AN-32 crash remains unclear.
According to reports, the AN-32 aircraft has been involved in several accidents over the years, with more than 20 crashes reported in India since it entered service in the 1980s. Despite safety concerns, the aircraft continues to be widely used for operational and logistics missions.
The Indian Air Force said further details regarding the incident will be shared after a detailed investigation into the crash.
