Second Largest Airport in Myanmar Temporarily Closed Following 'Suicide Drone' Attack

Myanmar’s second busiest airport, Mandalay Airport, has been closed for two days since Friday following a drone attack allegedly launched by pro-democracy rebel groups. The closure of the aviation facility was confirmed by several security sources to AFP.

The Myanmar military government stated that six ‘suicide drones’ launched an attack on the airport area on Thursday afternoon. Although there were no casualties, the incident disrupted flight schedules at the location.

A security source, who requested anonymity, confirmed the suspension of the airport’s operations. “Mandalay Airport is closed for today and tomorrow,” the security source told AFP on Friday.

“The attack occurred somewhat far from the airport buildings, but the airport was closed as a precautionary measure,” the source added.

Separately, another security official stationed at a different airport in Myanmar confirmed the cessation of operations. He mentioned that the facilities at Mandalay Airport would be “closed for maintenance” until Sunday.

Mandalay Airport serves as a vital international and domestic air transport hub in central Myanmar. In addition to serving civilian flights, civilian air attack monitors have identified that the airport’s runway is also frequently used by military fighter jets to launch airstrikes.