The Yemeni Transport Ministry has strongly condemned the attack on Aden International Airport, which was targeted with ballistic missiles and explosive drones. According to the ministry, the assault posed a direct threat to the lives of passengers, workers, and aircraft crews, and nearly resulted in a humanitarian catastrophe. The attack occurred on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
The ministry stated that the attack targeted the airport's runway and terminal, a civilian and vital facility that should be secure for travelers and staff. The ministry emphasized that civilian airports are not battlefields for military operations. The attack damaged the airport's infrastructure, putting lives at risk.
One of the ballistic missiles landed near the airport's runway just minutes before a Yemeni Airlines flight from Cairo was scheduled to land. The flight, numbered 603, had civilians on board, and the missile's proximity could have led to a human tragedy. The ministry noted that the airport was also home to employees and travelers waiting for a flight to Jeddah, as well as two aircraft on the ground.
As a result of the attack, authorities canceled the landing of the flight from Cairo and redirected it to Jeddah. The two aircraft on the ground were evacuated, and the airport building was cleared of staff and travelers, who were moved away from the danger zone. The ministry's swift response likely prevented further harm.
The Yemeni Transport Ministry views the attack on Aden airport as a serious escalation that threatens the safety of civilian air travel, aviation, and the lives of passengers and workers. The ministry asserts that this act constitutes a breach of international norms and conventions that safeguard airports and civilian facilities.
This incident follows the destruction of four Yemeni Airlines aircraft parked at Sana'a airport, highlighting the repeated targeting of aircraft and airports, which inflicts significant damage on Yemen's air transport sector. The ministry has called on the international community, civil aviation organizations, and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to condemn the attack.
The Yemeni Transport Ministry vows to take necessary measures to enhance airport and air navigation security, protecting passengers and workers. The ministry affirms that Aden International Airport will remain a civilian gateway open to Yemenis and travelers, while emphasizing its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of air travel.
Key points
- The attack on Aden International Airport was carried out using ballistic missiles and explosive drones.
- The incident endangered the lives of passengers, workers, and aircraft crews.
- The Yemeni Transport Ministry has called on the international community to condemn the attack and protect civilian air travel.
