IAF Airlifts Five Critically Ill Patients From Ladakh, Saves 143 Lives In 2026

The Indian Air Force (IAF) on Monday successfully airlifted five critically ill patients , including three Indian Army personnel , from Ladakh to Chandigarh for advanced medical treatment, overcoming difficult weather and challenging high-altitude conditions.

According to the Western Air Command (WAC) , the emergency Medical Evacuation (MEDEVAC) mission was carried out to ensure timely access to specialised healthcare facilities. The patients included three Army personnel, one dependent of a service member, and one civilian from Ladakh , all classified as Dangerously Ill Listed (DIL) patients requiring urgent medical attention.

Sharing details of the operation on social media platform X, the WAC said the evacuation was conducted using the IAF’s C-17 Globemaster and AN-32 transport aircraft , which safely transported the patients from the remote Himalayan region to Chandigarh despite adverse climatic conditions.

The Air Force highlighted that the mission reflected its commitment to saving lives in emergencies, particularly in difficult terrains where access to advanced healthcare facilities is limited. It described the operation as another example of the IAF’s ability to provide rapid assistance during critical situations.

The WAC also revealed that 143 lives have been saved through casualty evacuation (CASEVAC) operations in the Ladakh sector during 2026 alone , underlining the importance of the Air Force’s medical support missions in one of the country's most challenging operational environments.

A Dangerously Ill List (DIL) patient is a medical classification used for individuals whose condition is considered critical and unstable, with a high risk of rapid deterioration or death, necessitating immediate specialised medical care.

The IAF also released photographs from the evacuation mission, showcasing personnel and aircraft involved in the life-saving operation.