Ugandan military helicopter catches fire in deadly Somalia crash
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Deadly Helicopter Crash at Mogadishu Airport Claims Five Lives
Ugandan military helicopter catches fire in deadly crash at Aden Adde International Airport in Mogadishu, Somalia, killing five personnel on board. The tragic incident occurred during what the Ugandan military described as a “routine combat escort mission,” raising fresh concerns about aviation safety in the region.
Ugandan military spokesperson Maj Gen Felix Kulaigye confirmed the deaths and said three others—the pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer—survived with serious injuries and severe burns. The crash prompted an immediate investigation, and authorities are working to determine the cause.
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Eyewitnesses Describe Fiery Explosion
Farah Abdulle, an airport staff member, shared a harrowing account with Reuters: “We heard the blast and saw smoke and flames over a helicopter. The smoke entirely covered the helicopter.”
The explosion sent black plumes of smoke into the air, visible across the airport complex. Somalia’s state-run news agency confirmed that emergency services quickly contained the fire, preventing further damage to nearby aircraft and infrastructure.
Despite the severity of the crash, domestic flight operations at the airport continued uninterrupted, though a Turkish Airlines flight departure was delayed.
Mission Details Remain Limited
Maj Gen Kulaigye revealed that the downed aircraft had been returning from Balidogle airbase, located about 90 kilometers (56 miles) northwest of Mogadishu, in the Lower Shabelle region. The airbase is a strategic site for African Union (AU) and US operations supporting Somali forces in their fight against the militant group al-Shabab.
While the mission was labeled as “routine,” officials did not provide further details about its objective or whether there was any hostile engagement prior to the crash.
Ugandan Troops in Somalia as Part of AU Force
Ugandan forces are a key component of the African Union Transition Mission in Somalia (ATMIS), which currently includes around 11,000 troops deployed to support the Somali government in its decades-long battle against al-Shabab, an al-Qaeda-affiliated insurgency.
The AU troops are tasked with protecting key government installations, escorting supply routes, and conducting joint operations with Somali National Army units. The use of helicopters for combat escort and troop movement is common due to Somalia’s vast and often insecure terrain.
Aviation Authority Confirms Military Section Crash
Ahmed Maalim, head of Somalia’s Civil Aviation Authority, told the BBC that the helicopter crashed in the military section of the airport. The aircraft had flown in from Balidogle before crashing while preparing to land in Mogadishu.
The incident did not involve civilian aircraft or passengers and was swiftly contained by airport emergency crews. Authorities have cordoned off the area and launched a full technical investigation into what caused the mechanical failure or fire.
Security and Safety Under Scrutiny
Although Somalia has long dealt with militant violence and insurgency, this incident does not appear to be the result of enemy fire. However, the crash draws attention to the operational risks facing military personnel in high-stress combat zones.
Aviation analysts say equipment wear and tear, long flight hours, and harsh desert environments can all contribute to accidents involving military aircraft in conflict areas.
The Ugandan military has not revealed the model of the helicopter involved, nor whether there was a mayday call issued prior to the crash.
Regional Impact and Reactions
The AU mission expressed condolences to the families of the fallen soldiers and pledged support for the ongoing investigation. Somali officials also extended sympathies, recognizing Uganda’s critical role in the fight against terrorism in the region.
While not directly linked to an attack, the incident underscores the daily risks faced by peacekeeping forces operating in Somalia, even during routine missions.
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