Indian Il-76 makes record high-altitude landing near China border

An Indian Air Force Il-76MD heavy transport aircraft landed at Nyoma airbase in eastern Ladakh at 13,629 feet above sea level, which the service described as the highest-altitude landing ever recorded for the type. The airbase is about 23 kilometers from the Line of Actual Control with China and reopened after upgrades in November 2025. The four-engine Il-76MD can carry troops, vehicles and heavy cargo, making it useful for resupplying remote bases. The landing tested its ability to operate from Nyoma in thin mountain air, which reduces engine thrust and lift.