Nepal Plane crash in Kathmandu
In a tragic incident, eighteen people lost their lives when a small plane caught fire after skidding off the runway during takeoff from Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. The plane, operated by local carrier Saurya Airlines, was en route to Pokhara city for maintenance checks. The ill-fated aircraft was carrying two crew members and 17 technicians.
The crash has once again highlighted Nepal’s ongoing struggles with air safety, a persistent issue for the Himalayan nation. Despite the pilot surviving the crash, the loss of lives has cast a shadow over the aviation sector, sparking concerns and calls for improved safety measures.
The plane involved in the accident was one of Saurya Airlines’ two Bombardier CRJ-200 regional jets, both of which are approximately 20 years old. According to Flight Radar 24, these aircraft are a staple of the airline’s domestic operations, providing crucial connectivity across Nepal’s rugged terrain.
The aircraft was reportedly taking off from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu when it veered off the runway and caught fire. Emergency response teams were quick to arrive at the scene, but unfortunately, the blaze claimed the lives of all but one of those on board.
Amid the devastation, there was a sliver of good news: the pilot managed to survive the crash. Details about the pilot’s condition have not been fully disclosed, but their survival provides a critical eyewitness account that could aid investigators in understanding the exact sequence of events leading to the accident.
The technicians on board were on their way to Pokhara for scheduled maintenance checks. This routine task underscores the irony and tragedy of the incident, where those tasked with ensuring the safety and functionality of aircraft fell victim to an aviation disaster themselves.
Saurya Airlines, a domestic carrier in Nepal, has a fleet that includes two Bombardier CRJ-200 jets. These aircraft, though aging, are a mainstay of the airline’s operations. The crash brings to the forefront the broader issues surrounding the safety of older aircraft and the rigorousness of maintenance protocols.
Nepal’s air safety record has been a point of concern for years. The country’s challenging topography, coupled with unpredictable weather, makes flying a complex affair. This latest incident adds to a series of accidents that have plagued Nepalese aviation, raising questions about regulatory oversight and the implementation of safety standards.
Nepal has a history of air disasters that have collectively claimed numerous lives. The deadliest incident occurred in 1992 when a Pakistan International Airlines Airbus crashed into a hillside while approaching Kathmandu, killing 167 people.
More recently, in January 2023, a Yeti Airlines crash resulted in the deaths of at least 72 people. This crash was attributed to the pilots mistakenly cutting off power to the engines, leading to a catastrophic failure.
Following the crash, Nepalese authorities have launched an investigation to determine the cause. Initial reports suggest the possibility of mechanical failure or pilot error, but a thorough investigation will be necessary to establish the exact cause. The aviation community in Nepal and internationally will be watching closely as findings emerge.
This tragic accident in Kathmandu underscores the critical need for heightened safety measures and rigorous oversight in Nepal’s aviation sector. As the investigation unfolds, it is hoped that the findings will lead to improved safety protocols and prevent such devastating incidents in the future.
What happened during the plane crash in Kathmandu?
A small plane belonging to Saurya Airlines caught fire after skidding off the runway during takeoff from Kathmandu. The crash resulted in the deaths of 18 people, including 17 technicians and two crew members. The pilot survived the crash.
How many people died in the Kathmandu plane crash?
Eighteen people died in the crash, including 17 technicians and one crew member. The pilot survived the incident.
What was the purpose of the flight to Pokhara?
The flight was carrying 17 technicians to Pokhara for scheduled maintenance checks on the aircraft.
What is Saurya Airlines’ fleet like?
Saurya Airlines operates domestic flights in Nepal with two Bombardier CRJ-200 regional jets, both around 20 years old.
What is Nepal’s air safety record like?
Nepal has a poor air safety record, with several significant accidents in recent decades. The country’s challenging geography and weather conditions, along with aging aircraft and regulatory issues, contribute to these safety concerns.
What were some of the deadliest air accidents in Nepal?
The deadliest air accident in Nepal occurred in 1992 when a Pakistan International Airlines Airbus crashed into a hillside while approaching Kathmandu, killing 167 people. Another significant accident was the Yeti Airlines crash in January 2023, which resulted in at least 72 fatalities.
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