All seven people on board a Ranchi-Delhi air ambulance died after the aircraft crashed near Simaria in Jharkhand’s Chatra district on Monday night, according to officials. Chatra deputy commissioner Keerthishree G confirmed all those on board perished in the crash.
Details of the Crash
The Beechcraft C90 (VT-AJV), operated by Redbird Airways Pvt Ltd, was conducting a medical evacuation flight from Ranchi to Delhi when it went down in Kasaria Panchayat shortly after takeoff. The aircraft departed Ranchi at 7:11 pm and had an expected arrival time in Delhi of 10:00 pm.
According to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation, the aircraft lost radar and radio contact approximately 100 nautical miles south-east of Varanasi. Prior to losing contact at 7:34 pm IST, the pilots requested a “weather deviation” after reaching 6,000 feet.
Those on board included patient Sanjay Kumar, doctor Dr. Vikash Kumar Gupta, paramedic Sachin Kumar Mishra, attendants Archana Devi and Dhuru Kumar, and pilots Captains Vivek Vikas Bhagat and Savrajdeep Singh. District administration teams responded to the crash site, and the Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau has been dispatched to investigate the cause.
What Happens Next?
The Aircraft Accident Investigation Bureau will lead an investigation into the cause of the crash. The investigation could grab several weeks or months to complete. Further information is expected to be shared as the investigation progresses. It is also likely that authorities will review flight protocols and safety measures for air ambulances operating in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of aircraft was involved in the crash?
The aircraft involved was a Beechcraft C90, registration VT-AJV, operated by Redbird Airways Pvt Ltd.
Where did the crash occur?
The crash occurred in Kasaria Panchayat of Chatra district, in Jharkhand, near Simaria.
What was the aircraft doing when it crashed?
The aircraft was operating a medical evacuation flight from Ranchi to Delhi.
As investigations begin, what role do you believe weather conditions play in aviation safety?
