A military helicopter belonging to the Ethiopian Air Force crashed at Belay Zeleke International Airport in Bahir Dar on Saturday, leading to flight suspensions in the area. The incident occurred around noon, though details about casualties and the reasons for the crash are yet to be confirmed.
Local sources, including Ethio News and Meseret Media, reported that the crash took place at the airport, but there is no official information on whether any high-ranking military or government officials were onboard. As of now, the Ethiopian government has not issued an official statement on the matter.
In the wake of the crash, all flights to and from Bahir Dar, including those operated by Ethiopian Airlines, have been halted. Passengers and local sources have confirmed the suspension.
The crash follows a visit to Bahir Dar by Defense Chief Field Marshal Berhanu Jula, who had met with regional defense officials the day before. Reports indicate that military helicopters had been operating in the region in the days leading up to the crash.
This incident comes amid growing tensions in the Amhara region, where drone attacks have intensified, resulting in civilian casualties. Recently, a drone strike in Shoa killed a mother and her two children, highlighting the ongoing violence in the area.
