Myitkyina Airport to Reopen After Drone Attack, Flight Operations Uncertain

U Thet Paing Htoo, a Pyithu Hluttaw representative from the Union Solidarity and Development Party representing Hpakant Township, has announced that Myitkyina Airport will reopen on March 18 after being temporarily closed following a drone attack.

In a post on his social media page, he stated, “Myitkyina Airport will reopen starting from March 18, 2026.” He added in the comments that while the reopening is fully confirmed, it remains unclear whether flights will resume immediately. “I’m not sure if flights will operate, but the airport will reopen tomorrow as all preparations have been completed,” he wrote.

He further emphasized that the reopening is “100% certain,” although the status of aircraft landings on the first day is still unknown.

However, local media outlets in Kachin State reported that airline staff have confirmed the airport has already resumed operations as of March 17.

The airport had been closed since February 20, when a passenger aircraft—an ATR 72-600 operated by Myanmar National Airlines—was attacked by joint forces of the Kachin Independence Army and allied People’s Defence Force using FPV suicide drones. The aircraft sustained damage to its nose, midsection, and tail.

Additionally, minor damage to the airport’s apron led authorities to suspend flight operations. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued, and the National Defence and Security Council announced on February 23 that efforts were underway to restore normal flight operations and ensure smooth travel and cargo flow.

The reopening marks the resumption of airport operations after weeks of disruption.