Villagers described the moment a light attack aircraft of the Air Force crashed in a forested area of Chiang Mai. The two pilots controlled the plane to avoid residential areas before the crash. The Air Force issued a statement honoring them and ordered an investigation into the cause of the accident.
On 29 Jan 2026 CE, an update on the light attack AT-6 aircraft that crashed in the forest area of Ban Huai Muang, Mae Soi Subdistrict, Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province, at around 10:20 a.m., about 60 kilometers from the military airport of Wing 41. Both pilots aboard died. After the incident, officials and experts from Wing 41 secured the site to inspect and collect evidence to determine the cause of the accident.
An eyewitness villager said they heard the plane flying over the community at a lower altitude than usual, appearing to try to control the aircraft as it passed. They then saw smoke rising in the forest and quickly notified authorities to investigate. It is believed the pilots tried to steer the plane away from the village to minimize harm to residents.
Later, the names of the two pilots were confirmed. They were identified as Lieutenant Commander Samatcha Khunmat (flight instructor), the first pilot, and Captain Korawit Jenkid, the second pilot.
The Air Force spokesperson, Air Marshal Jakkrid Thamwichai, stated that on Thursday, 29 January 2026 CE, at 10:20 a.m., an AT-6TH light attack aircraft from Squadron 411, Wing 41, crashed during a Combat Search and Rescue training mission in Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province (210 degrees, 60 kilometers from Chiang Mai Airport), an official Air Force training area. The crash resulted in the deaths of both pilots on duty. The incident did not affect local residents or property.
Following the incident, Air Chief Marshal Seksan Kantha, Commander-in-Chief of the Air Force, ordered relevant units to immediately secure the crash site and assigned the Air Force Aircraft Accident Investigation Committee to conduct a thorough and careful investigation according to aviation safety regulations and standards, aiming to reach an accurate conclusion and improve aviation safety measures effectively.
The Air Force expressed deep condolences to the fallen pilots and their families, honoring their dedication and sacrifice for the nation, and pledged full support to the families of the deceased pilots.
The Air Force prioritizes the safety of personnel and flight training missions, which are essential for enhancing air force capabilities and readiness to defend the country, maintain sovereignty, and ensure the security of the public effectively. The Air Force also thanked local residents and rescue teams for their prompt assistance and urged the public to strictly follow the Air Force's safety instructions.
The AT-6TH light attack aircraft involved in the accident is one of eight planes recently commissioned into Squadron 411, Wing 41, on 4 September 2025 CE. The Air Force procured eight AT-6TH aircraft from the United States to replace the L-39ZA/ART fighter-trainer jets retired on 31 March 2021 CE.