An ATR-72-600 passenger aircraft belonging to Myanmar National Airlines was damaged in an unmanned aerial vehicle attack carried out on the night of February 20 at Myitkyina Airport in Myanmar. No casualties were reported in the incident.
Drone Attack on Passenger Aircraft in Myanmar
On the night of February 20, an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) attack targeted Myitkyina Airport in Myanmar, reportedly hitting an ATR-72-600 passenger aircraft in the fleet of Myanmar National Airlines (MNA). Authorities stated that no passengers or crew members were injured in the attack.
Aircraft Sustained Damage
According to the information obtained, the ATR-72-600 passenger aircraft was attacked while preparing for takeoff. It was reported that the aircraft sustained minor damage to its nose, the midsection of the fuselage, and the tail.
Authorities announced that air defense systems detected the UAVs and that air security forces neutralized the unmanned aerial vehicles. It was noted that the drones were prevented from detonating inside the airport and instead fell onto the runway and surrounding areas.
No Casualties
In an official statement, it was indicated that following the attack, passengers and crew were swiftly evacuated and rescue and security teams were dispatched to the scene within a short time. No fatalities or injuries were reported.
Security forces are continuing operations in the area, and it was stated that an “effective and decisive” response would be delivered.
Denial from KIA
It was alleged that the attack was carried out by groups affiliated with the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and the People’s Defence Forces (PDF). However, KIA spokesperson Naw Bu denied the accusations in a statement to the BBC, asserting that the KIA does not have a policy of attacking airlines carrying civilians and that the group had no involvement in the incident.
Emphasis on Strategic Airport
Myitkyina Airport is a critical air transport hub providing civilian transportation and the flow of goods from Kachin State to major cities such as Yangon and Mandalay. Authorities stated that deliberate attacks against civil aviation could constitute a war crime under international law and the Geneva Conventions.
The incident has once again brought risks to civil aviation security in Myanmar back onto the agenda.
https://www.airportgundem.com/myanmarda-yolcu-ucagina-drone-saldirisi-yapildi/
