An Indian Army Apache helicopter made an emergency landing on the banks of the Yamuna River in Uttar Pradesh’s Saharanpur district after encountering a technical fault during a routine training flight. Both pilots on board are reported safe, and there was no damage to property or injury at the landing site.
The helicopter had taken off from the Sarsawa Air Force Station when the technical issue was detected mid-air. Responding swiftly, the pilots executed a controlled landing in an open field in Jodhebans village, located in the Chilkana police station area near the river.
Local villagers rushed to the site upon hearing of the incident, but Army and police personnel quickly secured the area to ensure safety and allow for technical assessment. Videos and photographs taken by onlookers were later deleted by the authorities as part of standard protocol.
A technical team from the Army arrived at the site and initiated a detailed investigation to identify the cause of the malfunction. After the issue was diagnosed and resolved on the spot, the Apache helicopter was cleared for takeoff and successfully returned to the Sarsawa airbase.
According to Superintendent of Police (Rural) Sagar Jain, the prompt actions by the pilots prevented any escalation, and the helicopter remained intact throughout the incident. The safe landing and technical response have been praised as a testament to the professionalism and preparedness of the Army’s aviation wing.
The Apache, known for its advanced combat capabilities and precision targeting, is a vital asset in the Indian military’s airborne fleet, often deployed for both frontline operations and deep strike missions. This incident, though minor, drew significant public attention in the area and underscored the importance of readiness and technical competence in military aviation.