South African airline confirms damage to aircraft in Mali terror attack
A South African airline has confirmed that one of its aircraft was damaged during the September 17, 2024, terror attacks in Bamako, Mali.
National Airways Corporation (NAC) reported that a Beechcraft 1900D, registered as ZS-JAG, sustained damage during the incident.
Fortunately, all crew members and staff are safe and currently staying in a secure, isolated location, according to an official statement from the airline.
Footage from social media captured the attack, showing armed militants shooting at the aircraft and setting it on fire, underscoring the severity of the violence.
NAC clarified that the attack was concentrated around the gendarmerie, the Faladié area, and Bamako’s international airport, which is far from their location.
“The capital of Mali remains unaffected, and business and life continue as usual,” NAC added.
In addition to the aircraft, some of the company’s warehouses and spare parts were also damaged.
However, NAC emphasized that “this was not a deliberate attack on NAC or the World Food Programme (WFP).”
The aircraft was operating under the WFP, conducting humanitarian missions to assist Mali’s citizens.
The attack, led by around a dozen armed militants aligned with the Al-Qaeda-affiliated Group for the Support of Islam and Muslims (JNIM), initially targeted the military section of the airport.
Several other planes, including a Bombardier Dash 8, a presidential Boeing, and an Air Mali Boeing, also sustained damage.
The attack caused extensive damage to various hangars, ground equipment, and airport terminals.
Malian armed forces intervened, neutralizing some of the assailants.
While the airport has since resumed operations, flight schedules remain disrupted, with many airlines delaying or cancelling flights to Bamako due to ongoing security concerns.
NAC reiterated its commitment to staff safety, stating, “The safety of our crew is our top priority, and in collaboration with WFP, we will seek answers from the authorities to ensure a secure operational environment.”
