IAF’s ‘Gajraj’ achieves record landing in Ladakh

Ladakh, Nov 7 : The Indian Air Force (IAF) has achieved a major milestone in military aviation after its IL-76MD heavy-lift transport aircraft successfully landed at Nyoma airfield in Ladakh at an altitude of 13,629 feet, marking the highest-altitude landing ever achieved by this aircraft anywhere in the world. The Indian Air Force announced the achievement through a post on X, describing the historic landing as a demonstration of the aircraft's exceptional capabilities and the outstanding skill, precision and professionalism of its crew. The landing at Nyoma is particularly significant given the challenging high-altitude conditions, where thin air poses considerable difficulties for aircraft operations by affecting engine thrust and lift. Successfully operating under such conditions requires careful coordination, technical expertise and exceptional flying skills. Located close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) with China, Nyoma airfield holds considerable strategic importance for India. Its runway, measuring approximately 2.7 kilometres, is expected to strengthen the country's ability to transport troops, equipment and essential supplies to remote and strategically important areas of eastern Ladakh. The successful landing of the massive IL-76MD further demonstrates the Indian Air Force's growing operational capabilities in the Himalayan region, where difficult terrain, extreme weather and high altitude make transportation and logistical support particularly challenging. Union Minister for Civil Aviation Jyotiraditya Scindia also hailed the achievement as a historic moment in aviation, recognising the significance of the aircraft's record-breaking landing at such an extreme altitude. The IL-76MD, popularly known as Gajraj in IAF service, is a heavy-lift transport aircraft that plays an important role in India's military logistics, carrying personnel, heavy equipment and essential supplies over long distances. The latest achievement at Nyoma is expected to further strengthen India's strategic airlift preparedness in the border region, providing enhanced logistical capabilities and improving the ability to respond to operational requirements in difficult geographical conditions.