Aviation – Council Mourns Redbird Air Ambulance Crash
Aviation – The Council of Indian Aviation has conveyed its profound grief following the fatal crash of a Redbird Airways air ambulance near Simaria on Monday, describing the incident as a tragic setback for the country’s emergency aviation services.
Council Issues Official Condolence Statement
In a statement released on February 23, 2026, Council President Dr. Nitin Jadhav expressed sorrow over the accident and extended condolences to the families affected. He said the organisation stands in solidarity with those who lost loved ones in the crash and acknowledged the emotional toll on both the aviation and medical communities.
According to the Council, the aircraft went down while conducting a time-sensitive medical evacuation mission. The flight was transporting a patient along with medical staff, attendants and members of the flight crew. Such air ambulance operations are often conducted under pressing circumstances, where rapid response is critical to saving lives.
Critical Medical Mission at the Time of Accident
Officials noted that the aircraft had been assigned to transfer a patient requiring urgent medical care. These specialised missions are considered among the most demanding in civil aviation, as they combine medical urgency with operational precision.
The Council highlighted that air ambulance services play an essential role in connecting remote or underserved regions with advanced healthcare facilities. Every mission, it stated, involves close coordination between aviation personnel and healthcare professionals to ensure safe and timely transport.
While specific details regarding casualties and the sequence of events have yet to be publicly confirmed, authorities have begun examining the circumstances surrounding the crash.
Acknowledging the Risks in Emergency Aviation
Describing the accident as a sobering moment for the industry, the Council said it underscores the risks faced daily by pilots, crew members and emergency responders. Aviation professionals involved in medical evacuation flights often operate under high-pressure conditions, sometimes in challenging weather or terrain, to ensure patients receive immediate care.
The organisation offered prayers and support to the families of those onboard and reiterated its respect for the dedication shown by aviation and medical teams across the country.
Investigation Underway
Local authorities responded quickly to the crash site, and an official investigation has been initiated to determine the cause of the accident. The Council welcomed the probe and stressed the need for a comprehensive and transparent inquiry.
It stated that identifying the factors behind the crash would be essential in strengthening aviation safety protocols and preventing similar incidents in the future. Investigations in such cases typically review flight data, maintenance records, weather conditions and operational procedures.
The Council emphasised that transparency in the investigative process would not only provide clarity to affected families but also help reinforce confidence in the safety framework governing civil aviation.
Commitment to Aviation Safety
Reaffirming its role within the sector, the Council of Indian Aviation said it remains dedicated to maintaining high standards of operational safety and professional welfare. It pledged full cooperation with investigative authorities and indicated its willingness to assist in any safety review measures that may arise from the findings.
The organisation added that continuous evaluation of safety systems, training practices and regulatory oversight is essential to ensuring reliable air services, particularly in emergency medical operations.
Concluding its statement, the Council called for unity within the aviation community during this period of mourning. It stressed that while the loss is deeply felt, the collective commitment to safer skies must remain steadfast.
Authorities are expected to release further updates as the investigation progresses.