title:Two RTAF Pilots Killed in AT-6TH Crash Chiang Mai Training
ISLAMABAD: A devastating crash involving a Royal Thai Air Force lightattack aircraft has claimed the lives of two experienced pilots during aroutine training exercise in northern Thailand. The incident occurred onJanuary 29, 2026, when an AT-6TH Wolverine turboprop plane from Wing 41plummeted into a forested area in Chom Thong district, approximately 60kilometers southwest of Chiang Mai International Airport. Royal Thai AirForce spokesperson Air Marshal Chakkrit Thammavichai confirmed that bothcrew members perished at the scene, with no civilian injuries or propertydamage reported in the vicinity.
The accident took place around 10:20 a.m. local time while the aircraft,assigned to Squadron 411 of Wing 41 based in Chiang Mai, was engaged in acombat search and rescue (CSAR) training mission. This specialized exercisesimulates real-world recovery operations in hostile environments,underscoring the high-risk nature of military aviation preparedness. Thecrash site, located in a remote jungle near Ban Huai Fang village in MaeSoi sub-district, featured dense vegetation and challenging terrain, whichcomplicated immediate rescue efforts despite prompt notification toauthorities at approximately 10:48 a.m.
The AT-6TH Wolverine, a modern two-seat light attack and reconnaissanceplatform manufactured by Beechcraft under Textron Aviation, represents arecent addition to the Royal Thai Air Force inventory. Thailand became thefirst international operator of this advanced aircraft, with the final ofeight units commissioned in September 2025. Delivered primarily to Wing 41,these planes enhance capabilities in counter-insurgency, bordersurveillance, and armed reconnaissance, particularly in Thailand’s northernand western regions.
Preliminary reports indicate the aircraft struck the ground forcefully,creating a significant crater and scattering debris over a limited area ofabout 20 meters. The plane was fully ablaze upon arrival of emergencyresponders, highlighting the intensity of the impact. Eyewitness accountsand official statements suggest the pilots may have maneuvered to avoidpopulated zones, potentially sacrificing their own safety to preventgreater harm, though this remains unconfirmed pending the fullinvestigation.
Air Chief Marshal Seksan Kantha, commander of the Royal Thai Air Force, hasordered an urgent and comprehensive inquiry into the cause of the crash. Aformal aircraft accident investigation board has been established toexamine factors including mechanical failure, human error, environmentalconditions, and operational procedures. Such probes typically involveanalysis of flight data recorders, wreckage examination, pilot trainingrecords, and maintenance logs to determine contributory elements andrecommend preventive measures.
The loss of Squadron Leader Samatcha Khunmas, an instructor pilot, andCaptain Korawit Jenkit, the second pilot, has sent shockwaves through themilitary community. Both were seasoned aviators on duty, with Khunmasserving in a training capacity. Their deaths represent a significant blowto Wing 41’s operational readiness, as the fleet of only eight AT-6THaircraft now faces temporary reduction in available sorties while theincident is reviewed.
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This tragedy occurs against the backdrop of Thailand’s ongoing efforts tomodernize its air force amid regional security dynamics. The AT-6THWolverine’s acquisition underscores Bangkok’s focus on versatile,cost-effective platforms for diverse missions. However, incidents like thisprompt reflection on the inherent dangers of military training, even inpeacetime, and the importance of rigorous safety protocols.
Military aviation accidents, though rare, often lead to enhanced trainingstandards and equipment checks across fleets. The Royal Thai Air Force hasemphasized that the crash site was secured swiftly, with honor guards laterescorting the pilots’ remains to their families in a somber ceremony. Noevidence suggests foul play or external interference, and authorities haveruled out any link to broader geopolitical tensions.
The incident highlights the sacrifices made by armed forces personnel inmaintaining national defense capabilities. As investigations proceed, theRoyal Thai Air Force is expected to release further details, potentiallyincluding recommendations to bolster safety in CSAR and similarhigh-intensity drills.
Source:https://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/thai-air-force-2-pilots-killed-plane-crash-129662462
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