Nepal Plane Crash Kills 18, Sole Survivor Hospitalized
In a heartbreaking incident, a plane from Nepal’s Saurya Airlines crashed shortly after taking off from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu on Wednesday. The crash claimed the lives of 18 people, with the lone survivor being the pilot, who is currently receiving treatment for his injuries.
Details of the Crash
The Saurya Airlines flight, with 17 technicians and two crew members on board, was heading to Pokhara for routine maintenance. At around 11:11 AM local time, the plane crashed shortly after takeoff. Eyewitnesses reported a loud explosion followed by a massive fire as the aircraft veered off the runway. Rescue teams responded quickly, but tragically, only the pilot survived. He sustained injuries to his eyes and forehead and is currently under medical care.
Nepal plane crash video:
Official Statements and Investigations
Airport Chief Jagannath Niraula reported that initial findings suggest the aircraft deviated from its correct flight path right after takeoff, turning right instead of left. The Nepal Civil Aviation Authority has launched a comprehensive investigation to uncover the cause of this tragic event.
Victims and Their Backgrounds
Among the victims were 17 Nepali nationals and one Yemeni engineer. The bodies have been transported to T.U. Teaching Hospital in Kathmandu for autopsy. The airport was temporarily closed following the crash but has since resumed operations.
Context and Safety Concerns
This incident is the latest in a series of air disasters in Nepal, highlighting the ongoing issues in the country’s aviation industry. The difficult terrain, unpredictable weather, and regulatory lapses have all contributed to a poor safety record. The crash follows the devastating Yeti Airlines accident in January 2023, which resulted in 72 fatalities.
Global and Local Reactions
The tragedy has prompted calls for urgent improvements in aviation safety standards in Nepal. The government has assured support for the victims’ families and has emphasized its commitment to addressing the systemic issues within the sector.
Eyewitness Accounts
One local shopkeeper described the horrifying moment of the crash: “There was a very loud noise, like a truck overturning. We saw the plane crash and burst into flames. We wanted to help but there was an explosion, so we had to run away.”
Concluding Thoughts
This latest crash underscores the critical need for enhanced safety measures and regulatory oversight in Nepal’s aviation industry. As the investigation unfolds, authorities and aviation experts will be looking for ways to prevent such tragedies from occurring in the future.
