IAF AN-32 Aircraft Crashes During Landing in Assam’s Jorhat, Court of Inquiry Ordered Amid Detailed Investigation
An Indian Air Force AN-32 transport aircraft crashed while landing in Jorhat, Assam, sparking a security and emergency response situation across the region. The incident occurred as the plane was in final landing gear on its designated runway. Initial reports indicate the plane lost control during landing, leading to the accident.
Immediately after the incident, the Air Force Emergency Response Team was activated and the airbase area was completely secured. Local administration and security agencies also reached the spot and brought the situation under control. The runway was temporarily closed to allow rescue and investigation operations to proceed without hindrance.
The incident at Jorhat airbase has raised several questions about aircraft operations and safety procedures. Although no major damage or casualties have been officially confirmed yet, the Air Force has made it clear that the entire matter of AN-32 aircraft will be investigated seriously.
The Indian Air Force has also announced that a Court of Inquiry is being constituted to ascertain the causes of the accident of AN-32 aircraft. It is a formal military investigation process aimed at providing a detailed analysis of the technical, human and operational causes of an accident.
The AN-32 aircraft is one of the important transport aircraft of the Indian Air Force, which has been used for transporting troops, equipment and relief material for many years. The aircraft is particularly known for operating in difficult geographical conditions and areas with limited runways.
Following the accident, the Air Force has secured the runway and surrounding area and all flight activities have been temporarily controlled. Preliminary investigation has been initiated and all necessary evidence is being collected to ascertain the actual cause of the accident.

IAF AN-32 Crash Investigation – 5 Key Points and Detailed Explanation
- The accident occurred during the landing phase
The most important aspect is that the accident occurred during landing, which is considered the most sensitive phase of flight. During this time the aircraft has to maintain precise speed, altitude and balance. Any small technical or human error can have serious consequences. According to initial information, the plane lost balance while landing on the runway, leading to the accident.
- Investigating the Possibility of Technical Failure
The investigation team is also looking into whether the accident was caused by a technical fault. The aircraft’s engines, landing system and navigation equipment will be thoroughly inspected. Military aircraft like the AN-32 undergo regular maintenance, but the possibility of any technical problem cannot be completely ruled out.
- Weather and Visibility Conditions
Weather conditions at the time of landing are also an important part of the investigation. Poor visibility, rain or strong winds may affect landing. The Jorhat area frequently experiences weather changes, so the investigation team will also look into whether the weather played any role in the accident.
- Human Error and Communication Factors
Pilot decision-making, cockpit communication, and Air Traffic Control instructions will also be under scrutiny. Misunderstanding or delay at any stage can lead to a serious situation. The Court of Inquiry will analyse whether any human error contributed to the incident.
- Maintenance and Operational History
The aircraft’s maintenance history and recent flight records will also be part of the investigation. It will be seen whether the aircraft was in service as per all safety standards. The maintenance protocols of the Indian Air Force will also be reviewed to identify any systemic deficiencies.

Court of Inquiry, AN-32 Aircraft Role and Broader Safety Review After Jorhat Incident
The Court of Inquiry to be constituted by the Indian Air Force will be the most important process in this entire case. This investigation is not limited to the causes of the accident, but also includes a detailed study of aircraft operations, safety protocols and future preventive measures.
The Court of Inquiry consists of expert officers who analyse various technical and operational aspects. It examines flight data, cockpit recordings, maintenance logs and eyewitness accounts. Its purpose is to ensure that such incidents do not recur in the future.
The AN-32 aircraft is an important transport asset for the Indian Air Force. It is used not only for military needs but also in disaster relief operations. This aircraft plays a vital role, especially in areas like North-East India, where geographical conditions are challenging.
Airbases located in areas like Jorhat hold strategic importance, as many operational missions are conducted from here. In such a situation, any accident affects not only technical but also operational readiness. Following this incident, safety experts believe that aviation safety protocols need to be more stringently reviewed.
“Five Indian Air Force personnel have lost their lives in the air crash involving the AN-32 transport aircraft at the Jorhat air base in Assam. The co-pilot has survived and is being provided treatment.
A court of inquiry has been ordered by the Indian Air Force to ascertain the cause of the crash,” IAF officials told ANI.IAF in a post on X said, “An IAF An-32 aircraft met with an accident during a routine sortie today at approximately 1000h at Jorhat, Assam.”
The aircraft met with the accident during landing, triggering an emergency response at the air force station. Confirming the incident earlier, Defence PRO Lt Col M Rawat said, “IAF AN-32 crashes while landing at Jorhat air base. Losses being ascertained.”

