Aircraft erupts in flames after touchdown at Assam’s Rowriah Air Force Station; investigation launched as rescue teams secure crash site
Jorhat: An Indian Air Force (IAF) AN-32 transport aircraft crashed during landing at Jorhat Air Force Station in Assam, with the pilot feared dead, according to initial reports.
The accident occurred at the Rowriah Airport military facility, one of the IAF’s key operational bases in the Northeast. Sources said the aircraft encountered trouble shortly after touchdown and burst into flames within the airbase premises.
Emergency response teams were immediately deployed to the scene. Visuals from the crash site showed the aircraft severely damaged, with large sections of the fuselage destroyed and debris strewn across the area. Thick smoke and flames were seen rising from the wreckage before the fire was brought under control.
Authorities have yet to officially confirm the number of crew members on board or details of casualties. However, reports indicate that the pilot is feared to have lost his life in the crash. The AN-32, a twin-engine military transport aircraft, forms a critical part of the IAF’s logistics fleet and is extensively used for troop deployment, supply missions and operations in remote and high-altitude regions.
A detailed investigation has been initiated to ascertain the cause of the accident. Officials are expected to examine technical, operational and environmental factors leading up to the crash.
The incident comes months after an IAF Sukhoi-30MKI fighter aircraft crashed during a routine training sortie in Assam’s Karbi Anglong district.
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