Tragic IAF AN-32 Crash in Jorhat Claims 5 Lives; Safety Concerns Rise Over Aging Fleet
DAM Exclusive•By Akshay mishra
Tragedy at Jorhat: IAF AN-32 Crash Renews Concerns Over Transport Fleet Surrounding Recent Mishap
In a devastating incident on June 13, 2026, an Indian Air Force (IAF) AN-32 tactical transport aircraft crashed at the Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam during a routine training sortie. Shortly after take-off, the pilot reportedly requested an emergency landing. However, while touching down, the aircraft veered off the airstrip, crossed the taxiway, and suffered a severe impact that split the fuselage into two pieces, triggering a massive fire.
The crash resulted in the tragic demise of five IAF personnel on board, including senior officers like the Squadron Leader and Flight Lieutenant. The co-pilot was the sole survivor and is currently undergoing intensive medical treatment.
The Investigation & Probable Causes
The Chief of Air Staff has ordered a high-level Court of Inquiry (CoI) to determine the precise cause of the accident. Initial assessments from aviation experts point towards two major possibilities: severe "wind shear" (sudden changes in wind speed and direction common during the monsoon season) or a critical technical failure during the critical touchdown phase.
A History of Vulnerability
This accident brings back grim memories of previous AN-32 disasters. In 2019, an AN-32 flying from the same Jorhat airbase crashed into the mountainous terrain of Arunachal Pradesh, killing all 13 on board. In 2016, another aircraft mysteriously disappeared over the Bay of Bengal with 29 people, its wreckage only being partially discovered years later in 2024.
The Way Forward
Inducted from the Soviet Union in the 1980s, the AN-32 has been the backbone of the IAF's high-altitude logistics due to its unique high-mounted engines. While parts of the fleet have undergone avionics upgrades, this recent tragedy highlights the urgent need to fast-track their retirement. The IAF is currently inducting modern Airbus C-295 transport aircraft and working on the Medium Transport Aircraft (MTA) program to phase out these legacy platforms entirely and ensure maximum safety for Indian airmen.