Search operations underway in Dalma Hills; plane lost contact shortly after takeoff
A training aircraft from Alchemist Aviation crashed near Jamshedpur, with two pilots on board currently unaccounted for.
JAMSHEDPUR – A two-seater training aircraft crashed in the Dalma Hills area near Jamshedpur on Tuesday, prompting an extensive search for the missing pilots.
The plane, operated by Alchemist Aviation, took off from Sonari Airport in Jamshedpur around 1 PM.
Approximately 15 minutes after takeoff, the aircraft lost contact with air traffic control.
A senior official confirmed the incident and stated that search operations are in progress.
The identity of the two pilots, one instructor and one trainee, has not been disclosed.
Mrinal Paul, Managing Director of Alchemist Aviation, was reported in the media confirming the ongoing search efforts but refrained from providing further details.
Local authorities from Saraikela Kharsawan and Jamshedpur districts are coordinating the search operation.
This incident follows a similar occurrence in March 2022, when another training aircraft crashed at Sonari Airport, though both pilots survived with minor injuries.
Rescue teams, reportedly, are utilizing helicopters to aid in the search for the missing pilots and aircraft debris.
