Amid reports of the wreckage of the Indian Air Force (IAF) transport aircraft that went missing with 13 people on board being reportedly spotted by a helicopter deployed in search operation, the IAF has clarified that no wreckage has been sighted so far.
“Some reports of possible location of crash site were received, however, no wreckage has been sighted so far,” IAF stated in a tweet.
“IAF is coordinating with Indian Army, various government and civil agencies to locate the missing aircraft. Search operations will continue from air and by ground parties of Indian Army through the night,” another tweet by the IAF stated.
Some reports of possible location of crash site were received, however, no wreckage has been sighted so far. 3/4
— Indian Air Force (@IAF_MCC) June 3, 2019
A total of eight aircrew and five passengers were onboard the aircraft. C-130, AN-32 aircraft, two Mi-17 of IAF and Indian Army ALH helicopters were launched to locate the missing aircraft, the Defence Ministry stated.
The AN-32 aircraft that was headed for the Mechuka Advanced Landing Ground had taken off from the Jorhat airbase at 12:25 pm today (June 3) and last contacted ground at 1 pm.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh had tweeted saying he is keeping track of the developments.
“Spoke to Vice Chief of IAF, Air Marshal Rakesh Singh Bhadauria regarding the missing IAF AN-32 Aircraft which is overdue for some hours. He has apprised me of steps taken by IAF to find the aircraft. I pray for the safety of all passengers on board,” Singh tweeted.
