Tragic Air Ambulance Crash in Jharkhand Claims All Seven On Board
A devastating air ambulance crash in Jharkhand's Chatra district has resulted in the tragic loss of all seven individuals on board, including two crew members and a critically ill patient. The incident occurred on February 23, 2026, when a Beechcraft C90 aircraft operated by Redbird Airways Pvt Ltd crashed in a forested area under the Simaria block.
Flight Details and Timeline of the Crash
The air ambulance was en route from Ranchi to Delhi for a medical evacuation mission. According to official reports, the aircraft took off from Ranchi at 7:11 pm and established initial contact with Kolkata air traffic control. Around 7:34 pm, the crew requested a route deviation due to inclement weather conditions before abruptly losing both radar and communication contact.
The aircraft subsequently crashed in a remote forested area, leading to the immediate death of all occupants. The patient being transported had been admitted to a Ranchi hospital with severe burn injuries and was being shifted to Delhi for advanced medical treatment.
Investigation and Response
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation has dispatched a specialized team to investigate the crash site and determine the exact cause of this tragic incident. Aviation authorities are examining multiple factors including weather conditions, aircraft maintenance records, and communication logs from the flight.
This crash highlights the critical risks associated with medical evacuation flights, particularly when transporting critically ill patients under challenging weather conditions. The aviation community and medical transport services are closely monitoring the investigation findings to implement necessary safety improvements.
Broader Implications for Air Ambulance Services
The tragic incident raises important questions about air ambulance safety protocols and emergency medical transport systems in India. Key considerations include:
- Weather monitoring systems for medical evacuation flights
- Communication protocols during adverse weather conditions
- Safety standards for air ambulance operators
- Emergency response mechanisms for remote crash sites
As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to release preliminary findings that could lead to enhanced safety measures for medical evacuation services across the country.
