Tragic Accident During Routine Training Sortie
A tragic accident struck the Indian Air Force on 13 June 2026 when an AN-32 transport aircraft crashed while landing at Air Force Station Jorhat in Assam. The aircraft was undertaking a routine training sortie when the accident occurred within the airbase premises.
The crash resulted in the loss of five Indian Air Force personnel, while the co-pilot survived and is currently undergoing medical treatment.
Five Air Warriors Make the Supreme Sacrifice
The Indian Air Force identified the five personnel who lost their lives in the accident as:
- Squadron Leader Prashant Singh
- Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar
- Sergeant Jitendra Sharma
- Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat
- Agniveervayu Danish Alam
Their sacrifice in the line of duty has left the nation and the defence community deeply saddened.
Accident Occurred During Landing
According to the Indian Air Force, the AN-32 aircraft was carrying out a routine operational sortie when it met with an accident while landing at Jorhat Air Force Station at around 10:00 AM.
The aircraft crashed within the airbase and caught fire, prompting an immediate response from emergency and rescue teams. Efforts were launched swiftly to control the fire and assist the crew.
Court of Inquiry Ordered
The Indian Air Force has ordered a Court of Inquiry to determine the exact cause of the accident.
Investigators will examine all technical, operational, and environmental factors related to the crash. The findings of the inquiry are expected to help identify the circumstances that led to the tragic incident.
About the AN-32 Aircraft
The AN-32 is one of the Indian Air Force's most reliable transport aircraft and has been in service for over four decades.
The aircraft plays a crucial role in:
- Transporting troops and equipment
- Supplying remote and high-altitude areas
- Humanitarian assistance and disaster relief missions
- Tactical logistics operations
Its ability to operate from short and difficult airfields makes it a vital asset for the Air Force.
Nation Pays Tribute
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, senior military leaders, and citizens across the country expressed condolences to the families of the deceased personnel.
The Indian Air Force has assured full support to the bereaved families during this difficult time and paid tribute to the courage and dedication of the fallen air warriors.
Conclusion
The AN-32 crash at Jorhat Air Force Station is a heartbreaking loss for the Indian Air Force and the nation. While investigations continue to determine the cause of the accident, India mourns the loss of five brave air warriors who dedicated their lives to serving the country.
Their sacrifice, commitment, and service to the nation will always be remembered with honour and gratitude.
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