Jharkhand Air Ambulance Crash: Seven Missing After Flight Disappears From Radar

Spread the love

In a developing aviation tragedy, an air ambulance flight from Ranchi to Delhi disappeared from radar shortly after takeoff on Monday and is now believed to have crashed in Chatra district, Jharkhand, with seven people onboard, officials said.

The aircraft — a Beechcraft C90 (VT-AJV) operated by Redbird Airways — took off from Birsa Munda Airport, Ranchi, at about 7:11 p.m. IST before losing communication and radar contact at 7:34 p.m. while climbing across Jharkhand airspace.

❓ Loss of Contact and Last Known Position

DGCA sources revealed the air ambulance established initial contact and was even handed over to Kolkata ATC, but soon after requested a deviation, potentially due to weather conditions. Following this, all communication ceased, and the aircraft vanished from radar screens.

The last known position was logged near 100 nautical miles south-east of Varanasi, although the wreckage was located further south in a forest region of Simaria, complicating recovery efforts.

📍 Rescue and Recovery

State authorities launched intensive search and rescue operations, deploying district rescue teams, police units, and specialized aviation accident personnel. The densely wooded terrain has made access difficult, delaying confirmation on survivor status.

Local police and emergency workers have continued combing the area for signs of life while securing the site for investigation. The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau (AAIB) has been informed and is coordinating with DGCA teams.

👥 Flight Manifest

Reports indicate that the flight manifested seven people, including:

Two pilots.
A patient en route for urgent treatment.
A doctor, paramedic and two medical attendants.

No official confirmation has been made regarding the fate of those onboard. News outlets have described the occupants as missing as teams continue to search through dense forest areas.

⭐ Statement From Authorities

In a brief statement, the DGCA confirmed the aircraft crashed in Kasaria Panchayat of Chatra district but offered limited details pending further investigation. Rescue operations remain active, and more information is expected as teams reach the site.

Journalist Details

Jitendra Kumar

Jitendra Kumar is an Indian journalist and social activist from Hathras in Uttar Pradesh is known as the senior journalist and founder of Xpert Times Network Private Limited.