A military plane crash in Sudan’s Omdurman city killed 46 people and injured 10 others on February 25, 2025. The Sudanese army’s Antonov aircraft crashed shortly after takeoff from Wadi Sayidna air base, north of Omdurman, shocking the conflict-ridden nation.
Military sources said the aircraft was heading to Port Sudan, where Sudan’s military-backed government is based. Witnesses saw the plane plummet into Karrari district, a densely populated area, destroying homes. A loud explosion followed, filling the neighborhood with thick smoke and dust.
“We heard a massive blast, then the fire spread everywhere, and people ran in all directions. The plane hit buildings, and the destruction was terrifying,” said Karrari resident Ahmed Saleh. “
Victims included military personnel and civilians, among them high-ranking officers. Emergency teams responded quickly, battling flames and retrieving bodies. Authorities have started an investigation, with initial reports pointing to mechanical failure.
Sudan has a history of aviation disasters, often due to outdated aircraft and poor maintenance. In 2020, a military transport plane crashed in West Darfur, killing 16 people. A 2003 Sudan Airways crash claimed 116 lives. Despite calls for better air safety, Sudan still struggles with aging fleets and limited aviation infrastructure.
A former Sudanese Air Force pilot, speaking anonymously, stressed the need for reform. “Many aircraft are decades old and need maintenance,” he said. “Without funding and oversight, these tragedies will continue.”
The crash comes amid Sudan’s civil war between the military and the Rapid Support Forces (RSF). Since April 2023, the conflict has displaced millions and devastated regions like Khartoum and Darfur. The military has advanced against the RSF, but tensions remain high, worsening the humanitarian crisis.
Political analyst Fatima Abdelrahman warned of broader implications.
“At a time when the government struggles for control, this raises concerns about military readiness, It could also increase unrest as people question their safety,” she said.
The loss in Omdurman has deepened the grief of an already mourning nation. As rescue workers sift through debris and families bury loved ones, many wonder if Sudan’s aviation sector will ever improve.
Authorities promised a full investigation. “We will leave no stone unturned,” said General Ibrahim Hamdan, a military spokesperson. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the families of the deceased.”
For now, Sudan mourns another tragedy, hoping this disaster leads to aviation safety reforms. Until then, the skies over Sudan remain uncertain.
🚨🇸🇩46 KILLED IN SUDAN MILITARY PLANE CRASH
A Sudanese military Antonov plane crashed during takeoff from Wadi Seidna air base in Omdurman, just outside Khartoum, killing at least 46 people.
10 others were injured when the craft slammed into a house in the Karrari district.… https://t.co/fBom2viwiF pic.twitter.com/eAxdPPRS9p
— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) February 26, 2025