A Royal Thai Air Force AT-6 turboprop light attack and reconnaissance plane crashed into dense forest in Chom Thong district of Chiang Mai this morning.
The two-seater plane was on a routine training exercise when it crashed into the forest in Ban Huai Fang in Chom Thong district at about 10.30am.
It is not known at the time of this report whether the pilot and the co-pilot are safe. More details will be available later today. An emergency team has been sent to the crash site.
The AT-6TH light attack aircraft was inducted into service with Squadron 411, Wing 41, in September 2025.
A total of 12 AT-6TH aircraft were procured to replace the L-39 ZA/ART jet trainer aircraft that were retired from service.
The AT-6TH is designed to perform a wide range of missions, including close air support (CAS), armed reconnaissance, surveillance and intelligence missions, as well as search and rescue operations in combat areas.
The aircraft is fitted with a long-range laser designator and a video system that transmits real-time imagery from air to ground, along with the Link-TH tactical datalink system, enhancing both safety and operational effectiveness.
The first group of eight Thai pilots underwent training on the AT-6TH aircraft in the United States, covering flight operations, weapons employment, and maintenance. They were also certified as flight instructors and test pilots.
The Royal Thai Air Force signed a contract to procure eight AT-6TH aircraft in 2021 and an additional four aircraft in 2022.
