BANGKOK (AP) — In a tragic incident that underscores the dangers of military aviation, two Thai Air Force pilots lost their lives on Thursday when their aircraft crashed during a training mission outside the northern city of Chiang Mai. The military confirmed the casualties and stated that the accident occurred in the Chom Thong district, approximately 60 kilometers (37 miles) from Chiang Mai Airport, within a designated military training area.
The aircraft involved in the crash was an AT-6TH Wolverine, a light attack and reconnaissance plane that is designed for both combat training and actual missions. According to Air Marshal Jackkrit Thammavichai, a spokesperson for the Thai military, the crash's cause is currently under investigation, though further details were not disclosed at this time.
The AT-6TH Wolverine is a turboprop aircraft that has been recently integrated into the Thai Air Force’s fleet. It is manufactured in the United States by Beechcraft, a subsidiary of Textron Aviation. The Thai Air Force only recently completed its acquisition, commissioning the last of a total of eight AT-6TH aircraft in September. This addition to their air fleet was seen as a way to modernize the capabilities of the Air Force, providing essential training and evaluation opportunities for pilots.
The loss of the two pilots highlights the inherent risks associated with military flight training, particularly when operating new aircraft models. The investigation into the crash will likely focus on various factors, including potential mechanical failures, human error, and environmental conditions at the time of the incident.
This event serves as a reminder of the perils faced by military personnel during training exercises, as well as the importance of rigorous safety protocols and thorough investigations following incidents. The Thai Air Force, known for its commitment to developing competent aviators and maintaining operational readiness, will undoubtedly work to understand the circumstances surrounding this tragic event fully.
