SURIN – An Army Bell 212 helicopter was forced to make an emergency landing at Surin Phakdi Airport on Monday afternoon, injuring four crew members and briefly sparking a small fire. The incident occurred at approximately 5:19 p.m. on December 22, 2025, when the Royal Thai Army helicopter experienced control problems and a loss of stability during a routine mission, leading to a heavy impact upon descent.

Army Helicopter Makes Emergency Landing in Mae Hong Son Paddy Field

Emergency teams responded immediately, extinguishing a fire that broke out around the aircraft shortly after landing. The landing area was secured, and authorities confirmed there was no risk to public safety.

The injured personnel include pilot Major Suchat Nakcharoen, who sustained a right foot injury with no fractures; co-pilot Lieutenant Arin Ananyutthasakul, who suffered minor injuries; and two mechanics—Sergeant Major Kittipong Chimthai, who injured his right ankle with a possible fracture, and Sergeant Ekarin Jitrit, who sustained minor ankle injuries. All four were transported to Weerawat Yothin Military Camp Hospital, where they are reported in stable condition and under observation.

Thai Army Bell 212 helicopter making an emergency landing during a mission on the Thai-Cambodian border in Surin Province, resulting in four personnel being injured.#Thailand #Cambodia #BREAKING #crash pic.twitter.com/a1HABuMAPP

— Chaudhary Parvez (@ChaudharyParvez) December 23, 2025

In a statement issued at 6:30 p.m., the Second Army Region confirmed the emergency landing and injuries, emphasizing that the situation was quickly brought under control and that public safety was not compromised. The army stated that the welfare of its personnel remains its highest priority.

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An investigation into the cause of the incident has been launched, with a committee appointed to examine the circumstances in line with Royal Thai Army regulations. Further updates will be provided once the inquiry is complete. The helicopter remains on the runway pending inspection.

-Thailand News (TN)