GUWAHATI: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has set a world record after successfully landing an IL-76MD heavy transport aircraft at Nyoma airfield in Eastern Ladakh, at an altitude of 13,629 feet. According to the IAF, this is the highest-altitude landing ever achieved by an IL-76MD aircraft anywhere in the world.
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The milestone highlights the IAF's ability to operate heavy transport aircraft in challenging high-altitude conditions and strengthens India's strategic airlift capabilities in the region.
"13,629 FEET. A NEW HEIGHT IN AVIATION HISTORY," the IAF said in a post on X.
"An Indian Air Force IL-76MD has scripted history with a successful landing at Nyoma, marking the highest-altitude landing ever achieved by the aircraft anywhere in the world," it added.
Located near the Line of Actual Control (LAC), Nyoma is one of India's strategically important forward airfields. It supports military operations by facilitating the movement of troops, equipment and essential supplies to forward areas.
Landing a heavy aircraft at such an altitude is a challenging task. Thin air at high elevations affects engine performance, lift and landing conditions, requiring careful planning and exceptional flying skills.
The IAF said the successful operation demonstrated the crew's precision and professionalism, as well as the IL-76MD's ability to operate in some of the world's most challenging aviation environments.
The Russian-origin IL-76MD is a four-engine heavy transport aircraft that has served in the IAF's airlift fleet for decades. It can carry military personnel, heavy equipment, vehicles and essential supplies over long distances.
