Flights Suspended at Myitkyina Airport After Drone Attack on Passenger Plane
Authorities have temporarily suspended flight operations at Myitkyina Airport after a passenger aircraft was attacked, causing minor damage to the airport’s apron, the National Defence and Security Council’s information team announced.
The incident occurred on February 20, when a Myanmar National Airlines ATR 72-600 passenger plane, preparing to depart from Myitkyina to Mandalay with passengers on board, was targeted by joint forces of the Kachin Independence Army and allied People’s Defence Force using FPV suicide drones.
Explosions reportedly struck the aircraft’s nose, midsection, and tail, causing damage.
The statement said that attacking a civilian airline unrelated to military operations constitutes a war crime under the Geneva Conventions and international law.
Security forces are carrying out necessary area clearance and protection measures.
Due to slight damage to the airport apron, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued to suspend flights temporarily.
Authorities said efforts are underway to resume normal operations as quickly as possible to ensure smooth passenger travel and cargo transport.
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