A tragic accident involving an Indian Air Force (IAF) AN-32 transport aircraft claimed the lives of five Air Force personnel during a landing operation at Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam on Saturday.
According to the IAF, the aircraft, attached to the 43 Squadron, met with an accident around 10 a.m. while approaching the runway at the Rowriah-based airbase in eastern Assam. All five personnel on board lost their lives in the incident.
The deceased have been identified as Squadron Leader Prashant Singh, Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar, Sergeant Jitendra Sharma, Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat, and Agniveervayu Danish Alam.
Air Force Orders Investigation
The Indian Air Force confirmed the accident in an official statement and expressed condolences to the families of the personnel who lost their lives while serving the nation.
While authorities have not yet disclosed the exact circumstances that led to the crash, the Air Force announced that a Court of Inquiry has been constituted to determine the cause of the accident.
Officials are expected to examine technical, operational, and environmental factors as part of the investigation.
Security Tightened Around Airbase
Following the incident, security measures were significantly increased at the Jorhat Air Force Station. Defence officials stated that access to the airbase was restricted immediately after the crash, with entry barred to unauthorized individuals as emergency response teams carried out their operations.
The area remained under close monitoring while authorities assessed the situation and began recovery procedures.
Rajnath Singh Expresses Condolences
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh expressed deep sorrow over the loss of the five air warriors.
In his message, he paid tribute to their dedication and service, stating that their commitment to protecting the nation would always be remembered with gratitude and respect.
Assam CM Offers Support
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma also conveyed condolences to the bereaved families. He assured that the state government is coordinating with defence authorities and is prepared to provide any assistance required in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The Chief Minister said the people of Assam stand with the families of the deceased personnel during this difficult time.
Nation Mourns Loss of Air Warriors
The accident has once again highlighted the risks faced by armed forces personnel during routine operational duties. Messages of condolence and tributes poured in from across the country as news of the crash spread.
Further details regarding the cause of the accident are expected to emerge after the completion of the Air Force’s inquiry.
The loss of five dedicated Air Force personnel has left the defence community and the nation mourning another tragic aviation incident involving military service members.
