A Ugandan military helicopter has tragically crashed in Mogadishu, resulting in the deaths of five individuals onboard, while the flight crew managed to survive with serious injuries.
Ugandan Military Helicopter Crash in Mogadishu Leaves Five Dead
Ugandan Military Helicopter Crash in Mogadishu Leaves Five Dead
Tragic incident at international airport marks another safety concern for Somalia's air travel.
The incident occurred at the Aden Adde International Airport in Somalia's capital, where an investigation is currently underway to ascertain the cause of the crash. Major General Felix Kulaigye, a spokesperson for the Ugandan military, confirmed the fatalities and reported that the pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer were rescued with severe burns and injuries. Eyewitness accounts detail a loud blast followed by extensive smoke and flames enveloping the helicopter. The fire was quickly subdued by airport emergency services.
The helicopter was on a "routine combat escort mission," as stated by Maj Gen Kulaigye, although further details have yet to emerge. The aircraft had reportedly flown in from Balidogle airbase, located approximately 90 km northwest of the capital. The crash temporarily delayed a Turkish Airlines flight, yet domestic flights resumed operations shortly after the event.
This incident marks a significant event for Ugandan troops, who are part of a larger 11,000-strong African Union force engaged in combatting the al-Qaeda-affiliated al-Shabab insurgency in Somalia, which has persisted for more than two decades. The local aviation authority is also involved in the ongoing inquiries, as authorities work to ensure the safety of air travel within Somalia.
For real-time updates and discussions on this developing story, visit RTW News or follow us on social media.
The helicopter was on a "routine combat escort mission," as stated by Maj Gen Kulaigye, although further details have yet to emerge. The aircraft had reportedly flown in from Balidogle airbase, located approximately 90 km northwest of the capital. The crash temporarily delayed a Turkish Airlines flight, yet domestic flights resumed operations shortly after the event.
This incident marks a significant event for Ugandan troops, who are part of a larger 11,000-strong African Union force engaged in combatting the al-Qaeda-affiliated al-Shabab insurgency in Somalia, which has persisted for more than two decades. The local aviation authority is also involved in the ongoing inquiries, as authorities work to ensure the safety of air travel within Somalia.
For real-time updates and discussions on this developing story, visit RTW News or follow us on social media.
