An Indian Air Force (IAF) Antonov AN-32 transport aircraft tragically crashed and caught fire on Saturday morning while attempting to land at the Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam. All five personnel aboard lost their lives in the accident.
The aircraft, part of the 43 Squadron, was engaged in a routine cargo sortie when the crash occurred around 10:00 am local time at the Rowriah airbase. Eyewitnesses reported hearing a loud explosion followed by thick smoke engulfing the landing area.
Emergency teams, including fire tenders and medical units, promptly responded to the scene to extinguish the fire and secure the site. Despite their efforts, all five crew members succumbed to the crash.
The deceased have been identified as Squadron Leader Prashant Singh, Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar, Sergeant Jitendra Sharma, Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat, and Agniveervayu Danish Alam. Photographic identification of the personnel has been released publicly.
In a significant development, the IAF expressed deep regret over the loss, describing the personnel’s deaths as a supreme sacrifice in the line of duty. The force extended its condolences to the families and assured support during this difficult time.
The Jorhat airbase is a critical strategic hub for logistical and military air operations across India’s northeastern region. The AN-32, a Soviet-designed twin-engine turboprop, is a key component of the IAF’s tactical transport fleet, frequently used for troop and cargo transport in challenging high-altitude environments.
While the exact cause of the crash remains unknown, the IAF has initiated a formal investigation. A court of inquiry is being established to determine the circumstances leading to the accident. Authorities have appealed to the public and media to refrain from speculation until the investigation is complete.
