Security forces in Myanmar reported that an ATR-72-600 passenger plane was hit by a suicide drone on the evening of 20/2 while preparing for takeoff from Myitkyina airport.

The Myanmar National Airlines (MNA) aircraft sustained minor damage to its nose, mid-fuselage, and tail light. Security forces promptly evacuated everyone and organized rescue operations after the attack.

All passengers and crew members were safe during the incident. The number of people aboard the ATR-72-600 when it was hit by the drone remains unknown.

This marks the first recorded suicide drone attack targeting a passenger plane worldwide since this weapon type became increasingly common in conflicts.

Myanmar officials accused the Kachin Independence Organization (KIA) and the People's Defense Force (PDF) of being behind the incident. They stated that intentionally attacking a civilian airline constitutes a war crime under the Geneva Conventions and international law.

The commercial aircraft damaged by a suicide drone attack on Myitkyina airport in Myanmar on the evening of 20/2. *Photo: ANN*

Air security subsequently intercepted other drones after air defense systems detected them. This prevented the drones from exploding inside the airport, causing them to fall onto the runway and adjacent areas.

Naw Bu, a spokesperson for the KIA, denied the Myanmar government's accusations. He stated that the group has no policy of attacking civilian airlines and took no action related to this matter.

Myitkyina airport serves as an air transport hub, facilitating non-military public travel and rapid cargo movement from northern Kachin state to Yangon and Mandalay.

The KIA and PDF are reportedly conducting attacks to weaken the Myanmar government's administration and disrupt regional peace and stability. These groups are also accused of using drones to drop bombs on infrastructure, roads, schools, and hospitals.

By Ngoc Anh (Sources: Straits Times, Eleven Media, ANN)