Fatal AN-32 Aircraft Crash Claims Lives of Five IAF Personnel at Jorhat Air Force Station
A tragic accident on Saturday morning resulted in the loss of five Indian Air Force personnel when an Antonov An-32 transport aircraft crashed during its landing at the Air Force Station in Jorhat, Assam. The Indian Air Force confirmed the fatalities and announced the initiation of a Court of Inquiry to determine the cause of the accident.
The aircraft, engaged in a routine mission, crashed within the airbase as it approached the Rowriah airfield for landing. It sustained severe damage and caught fire. Emergency response teams, including firefighting and rescue units, were promptly dispatched to the scene. Senior IAF officers quickly arrived to manage the situation, and the fire was contained as initial measures for handling the crash site were executed.
The personnel who tragically lost their lives in the accident were identified by the Indian Air Force as follows:
| Personnel |
|---|
| Squadron Leader Prashant Singh |
| Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar |
| Sergeant Jitendra Sharma |
| Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat |
| Agniveervayu Danish Alam |
In an official statement, the IAF expressed profound regret over the loss and extended its condolences to the families of the deceased. “The Indian Air Force deeply regrets the loss of five personnel in the An-32 accident at Jorhat, Assam. Squadron Leader Prashant Singh, Flight Lieutenant Shubham Kumar, Sergeant Jitendra Sharma, Agniveervayu Khemaram Kumawat, and Agniveervayu Danish Alam made the supreme sacrifice in the line of duty,” the statement declared.
The IAF further added, “An IAF An-32 aircraft met with an accident today while landing at Jorhat. A Court of Inquiry is being constituted to ascertain the cause of the accident.” Initial investigations at the crash site are currently underway.
The Antonov An-32 is a twin-engine turboprop transport aircraft that has been a crucial asset for the Indian Air Force for years. Known for its ability to operate in challenging environments such as high-altitude airfields and hot, tropical climates, the aircraft is extensively used for tactical airlift, carrying cargo up to 7.5 tonnes, troop transport, supply drops in remote locations, and paratrooping missions. The IAF operates a considerable fleet of these durable aircraft, which are vital for logistical support in India’s northeastern region and other difficult terrains.
The Jorhat Air Force Station, or Rowriah, is a strategically significant base under the Eastern Air Command. It plays a crucial role in conducting operational, training, and logistical missions in the Northeast, including supporting forward airfields and advanced landing grounds in Arunachal Pradesh and other border areas.
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma acknowledged the incident and noted that the state government is awaiting further information.
This incident occurred months after another IAF aircraft accident in the region, when a Sukhoi Su-30MKI fighter jet crashed in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district in March 2026, resulting in the deaths of two pilots. However, each of these incidents is being investigated independently.
The Indian Air Force has promised a comprehensive and professional investigation through the Court of Inquiry. The investigation will examine all facets of the accident, including flight parameters, maintenance records, weather conditions, and procedural elements, to establish the precise cause and recommend necessary measures.
The defence community and the nation mourn the loss of these courageous air warriors who sacrificed their lives in service to the country. Their dedication highlights the inherent risks taken by IAF personnel to maintain operational readiness and uphold national security, especially in challenging operational conditions.
Updates on the investigation and funeral arrangements for the deceased personnel are awaited. The Indian Air Force remains steadfast in supporting the families of the fallen during this time of immense sorrow.
