A Sudanese military, Antonov aircraft crashed over a populated district in Omdurman, leading to at least 46 fatalities. The crash, which occurred on Tuesday , is one of the deadliest aviation disasters in Sudan’s recent history.
Details of the Crash
The aircraft went down while taking off from Wadi Sayidna Air Base, located north of Omdurman, the sister city of Khartoum. It was reportedly en route to Port Sudan, the current seat of Sudan’s military-backed government.
Eyewitnesses in the Al-Thawra neighborhood of Omdurman reported hearing loud explosions as the plane came down, sending thick clouds of smoke and dust into the sky. The impact also damaged multiple homes, adding to the devastation.
Casualties and Victims
Initial reports indicated 19 deaths, but the toll quickly rose to 46 as rescue operations progressed. Among the dead were senior military officers, including Major General Bahr Ahmed Bahr and Lieutenant Colonel Awad Ayoub, as well as the entire flight crew. Tragically, the victims also included five siblings and several other civilians who were in the vicinity when the crash occurred. At least 10 people were injured and were transported to Nau Hospital in Omdurman.
Possible Causes and Aviation Safety Concerns
The exact cause of the crash remains unknown, as the military has yet to release an official statement regarding the incident. However, Sudan has a troubled aviation safety record, with frequent aircraft accidents due to aging fleets, poor maintenance, and operational challenges.
This is not the first such tragedy in Sudan’s aviation history. In 2020, a Russian Antonov An-12 military transport plane crashed in Darfur, killing 16 people. In 2003, a Sudan Airways passenger flight crashed into a hillside, resulting in the deaths of 116 passengers, with only one survivor.
Impact and Response
The Sudanese government and military are expected to launch an investigation into the incident. Given the country’s ongoing internal conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF), the loss of high-ranking military officials could have significant implications for the nation's stability.
The aviation community and international organizations may also push for improved safety standards and stricter maintenance protocols for Sudan’s military and civilian aircraft.
This tragic incident highlights the urgent need for aviation safety reforms in Sudan. As investigations continue, the focus should be on ensuring that such disasters are prevented in the future. For now, the country mourns the lives lost in yet another devastating air tragedy
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