Ugandan Military Helicopter Crash in Somalia Claims Five Lives

Tue Oct 14 2025 13:44:19 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A tragic incident involving a Ugandan military helicopter during a routine mission in Somalia leads to multiple fatalities.

A Ugandan military helicopter crashed at Mogadishu's Aden Adde International Airport, resulting in the death of five personnel aboard. The unfortunate accident saw the pilot, co-pilot, and flight engineer survive with severe injuries, alongside an ongoing investigation to determine the cause of the crash. Eyewitness accounts describe a loud blast followed by thick smoke as emergency services swiftly contained the fire. This helicopter was part of Uganda's contribution to the African Union forces engaged in the fight against al-Shabaab, an insurgency that has plagued Somalia for decades. The crash did cause disruptions, including a delayed Turkish Airlines flight, although other domestic flights proceeded without issues.

An investigation is currently underway to uncover the circumstances surrounding the incident.

While emergency teams responded adeptly to extinguish the flames, the loss of five lives underscores the dangers faced by military personnel operating in conflict zones. The Ugandan military's contributions are notable as they participate in a larger mission alongside the African Union to stabilize Somalia amid ongoing violence. With the helicopter having just flown in from Balidogle airbase, further details regarding the mission are anticipated as the investigation progresses. The helicopter mishap not only serves as a reminder of the risks involved in military operations but also highlights the continuous challenges within the region's aviation safety framework.