AN-32 Plane Crashes at Jorhat Airbase in India, 5 Dead | GRAPHIC
Five IAF personnel died when an Antonov AN-32 transport aircraft crashed and caught fire at Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam on Saturday; one co-pilot survived with serious injuries.
An Indian Air Force (IAF) Antonov An-32 transport aircraft crashed while attempting to land at the Jorhat Air Force Station (Rowriah) in Assam on Saturday, June 13, 2026, killing five personnel.
The IAF confirmed the incident occurred around 10:00 AM during a routine sortie. The aircraft, belonging to the IAF's 43 Squadron, veered off the runway, crashed within the airbase premises, and caught fire. Rescue teams responded quickly, extinguishing the fire.
Five IAF personnel lost their lives:
One co-pilot survived the crash and sustained serious injuries. He is receiving medical treatment.
The IAF expressed deep regret in an official statement: “The Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of five personnel in the An-32 accident at Jorhat, Assam... [They] made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty.”
The IAF has ordered a Court of Inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident. The airbase was secured, and senior officials reached the site.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and other leaders extended condolences to the families of the deceased.
Background on the Aircraft
The Antonov An-32 is a Soviet-era twin-engine turboprop tactical transport aircraft, widely used by the IAF for cargo and personnel transport in challenging terrains, particularly in the northeastern region. It is often referred to as the IAF's "workhorse." This incident has renewed attention on the aircraft type's operational safety record.
Note: Jorhat is a key city in Assam with a major IAF airbase; it is not India's national capital.
This remains a developing story, with the official investigation underway.