Two Thai Air Force pilots have tragically lost their lives following a devastating plane crash during a routine training mission in northern Thailand. The incident occurred on Thursday, 29th January 2026, casting a shadow over the military's aviation operations.
Details of the Fatal Training Incident
The aircraft involved was an AT-6TH Wolverine, a light attack and reconnaissance plane that crashed in the Chom Thong district. This area is situated approximately 60 kilometres, or 37 miles, from Chiang Mai airport, within a designated military training zone. Air Marshal Jackkrit Thammavichai, serving as spokesperson for the Thai Air Force, confirmed the grim details of the accident.
Investigation into the Crash Cause
The exact cause of the crash remains unknown at this time, with authorities launching a thorough investigation to determine what led to the tragedy. The AT-6TH Wolverine is a two-seater turboprop aircraft, and both pilots onboard perished in the incident. This model is produced in the United States by Beechcraft, which operates as part of Textron Aviation, and represents a relatively new addition to Thailand's military fleet.
Recent Acquisition by the Thai Air Force
Thailand recently acquired the fighter-trainer aircraft, with the Thai Air Force commissioning the final unit of its eight AT-6TH planes as recently as September. This crash marks a significant setback for the force, raising questions about training protocols and aircraft safety. The loss of these pilots underscores the inherent risks associated with military aviation training, even with modern equipment.
As the investigation progresses, the Thai Air Force and international observers will be closely monitoring the findings to prevent future occurrences. The community in Chiang Mai and the wider nation mourn the loss of these servicemen, highlighting the sacrifices made in military service.
