Myanmar Suspends Myitkyina Flights After ATR72 Attack

Flights to Myitkyina in northern Myanmar have been suspended after an ATR72-600 operated by Myanmar National Airlines was struck by an explosive-laden uncrewed aerial vehicle on February 20, 2026. The incident occurred during boarding preparations for a scheduled service to Mandalay International Airport. No passengers or crew members were injured in the attack, but the aircraft sustained visible structural damage.

The aircraft involved, registration XY-AMI (msn 1368), remains grounded at Myitkyina Airport. Photographs circulating locally show significant impact damage to both the tail section and the nose of the aircraft, including shattered cockpit windows. The extent of the structural damage has not yet been formally disclosed, and authorities have not indicated how long the aircraft will remain out of service.

Myanmar National Airlines, based in Yangon, operates a fleet of eight ATR72-600 turboprops alongside two Boeing 737-800 narrowbody jets. The ATR72-600 is widely used for domestic routes across Myanmar, connecting regional cities with key hubs such as Yangon and Mandalay. The temporary loss of one aircraft and the suspension of services to Myitkyina are expected to disrupt domestic connectivity, particularly in Kachin State.

Following the incident, several Myanmar carriers announced the immediate suspension of flights to Myitkyina. These include MAI – Myanmar Airways International, Mann Yadanarpon Airlines, Air Thanlwin, and Mingalar. Airlines have not specified when operations may resume, citing ongoing security concerns and uncertainty over airfield safety.

Myanmar’s military government attributed the attack to the Kachin Independence Army (KIA), one of several ethnic armed groups engaged in conflict with the ruling junta. The KIA has denied responsibility, stating it does not target civilian aircraft. The incident underscores the fragile security environment in parts of northern Myanmar, where clashes between military forces and ethnic armed organizations have intensified in recent years.

Myitkyina, the capital of Kachin State, serves as the primary economic and administrative center of northern Myanmar. The airport is a critical transport link for business, government, and humanitarian operations in the region. The suspension of flights raises fresh concerns about aviation safety and operational stability in conflict-affected areas of the country.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com