The Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force flew an AT-6TH aircraft on 18 February 2026 at 08:45 to demonstrate confidence following a recent fatal crash. The flight was intended to reaffirm support for personnel after the loss of two pilots. A formation flight was also conducted in tribute to the fallen airmen.
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The Royal Thai Air Force stated that combat readiness is a continuous mission with no days off, carried out since its establishment. The air base involved is the only main wing in northern Thailand responsible for the upper region. The flight aimed to show unity and maintain operational confidence.
Air Chief Marshal Seksan Katha, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force, flew with an AT-6TH aircraft from Squadron 411 to demonstrate confidence in mission capability and to stand alongside all personnel. He affirmed, “We will take care of one another and move forward together with stability.” A “Fly missing wingman formation” was performed to honour and remember the pilots who lost their lives in the line of duty.
He stated, “We will remember those who sacrificed their lives in the line of duty, and we will take care of those who remain. This is my pledge. That is why I had to come today, to take care of all of us who must continue performing our duties for the nation.”
The AT-6TH light attack aircraft was commissioned into service with Squadron 411, Wing 41, in September 2025. However, at 10:30am on 29 January, an AT-6TH aircraft of the Royal Thai Air Force crashed in the area of Ban Huai Fang, Chom Thong district, Chiang Mai province, during a training flight mission. Two pilots were killed instantly at the scene. The investigation into the crash is ongoing.
Amarin reported that the flight on 18 February formed part of ongoing efforts to maintain operational readiness and morale following the incident. The Royal Thai Air Force continues its mission in the northern region while honouring the sacrifice of the two pilots.
Pictures courtesy of Amarin
Key Takeaways
• The Air Force chief flew an AT-6TH on 18 February 2026 to demonstrate confidence after a fatal crash.
• Two pilots were killed when an AT-6TH crashed during a training mission on 29 January in Chiang Mai.
• A “Fly missing wingman formation” was conducted to honour the fallen airmen.
Related story
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 19 Feb 2026
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