A passenger aircraft operated by Myanmar National Airlines (MNA) was damaged in a drone attack at Myitkyina Airport on the evening of February 20, according to reports.

The incident occurred at around 8:30 pm. as the MNA aircraft was preparing for departure from Myitkyina Airport. A drone reportedly struck the tail section of the plane, causing damage.

Following the attack, locals reported hearing heavy weapon fire in the vicinity of the airport, with some accounts shared on social media.

Myitkyina Airport serves as a key transportation hub in Kachin State, facilitating civilian travel and the movement of goods to major cities such as Yangon and Mandalay. Given current transportation challenges, the airport plays an important role in ensuring faster connectivity for the public.

Earlier, on February 12, Myitkyina Airport was reportedly targeted in a separate attack involving FPV suicide drones allegedly launched by a joint force of the Kachin Independence Army (KIA) and People’s Defence Force (PDF). Security personnel detected the drones using air defense systems and were able to prevent them from exploding the airport. The drones reportedly crashed near the runway and surrounding areas, and explosive devices carried by the drones were safely neutralized to prevent harm to civilians.

Reports indicate that joint KIA and PDF groups have carried out attacks on infrastructure in the region, including roads, bridges, schools, and hospitals, using landmines, rockets, and drone-delivered explosive devices, allegedly aimed at disrupting government administration and regional stability.