Nepal Plane Crash Highlights: Smoke rises from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, Wednesday, July 24, 2024. State television in Nepal says a plane has slipped off the runway and crashed while trying to take off from Kathmandu airport. (AP/PTI)
A domestic flight operated by Saurya Airlines, carrying 19 passengers, “veered off” the runway and crashed while attempting to take off from Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal’s main aviation hub. Tragically, 18 people lost their lives in the accident, with the pilot being the sole survivor.
Nepal’s aviation authority confirmed that the Saurya Airlines aircraft departed from Tribhuvan International Airport (VNKT) on Wednesday, July 24, en route to Pokhara International Airport (VNPR). “Shortly after takeoff from the runway, the aircraft veered off to the right and crashed on the east side of the runway,” they stated.
Images from local media depicted smoke rising from the crash site, with wreckage scattered across a ditch. The fire was quickly brought under control. Tribhuvan International Airport, which handles both international and domestic flights, was temporarily closed as emergency teams responded. Although it is monsoon season in Kathmandu, it was not raining at the time of the crash, the visibility was poor.
Visuals from Maharajgunj Medical Campus in Kathmandu as People Mourn
News agency ANI shared poignant visuals from the Maharajgunj Medical Campus in Kathmandu, where families and friends mourned the loss of their loved ones.
What Exactly Happened on the Runway?
According to the aviation authorities in Nepal, the Saurya Airlines aircraft took off from Tribhuvan International Airport (VNKT) at 11:11 Nepali Standard Time (NST) on July 24, bound for Pokhara International Airport (VNPR). “Shortly after takeoff from runway 02, the aircraft veered off to the right and crashed on the east side of the runway. Rescue operations were initiated immediately. The fire was brought under control, one injured person (Captain Manish Ratna Shakya) was rescued and taken to the hospital, and 18 people were found dead,” the aviation authority added.
Names of the Victims Released
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has released the names of the 18 individuals who perished in the Saurya Airlines crash. This tragic incident has deeply affected the community, with many mourning the sudden and devastating loss.
Kathmandu Airport Reopens After the Crash
Following the crash and subsequent emergency response, Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport has reopened. The airport had been temporarily shut down to facilitate rescue and recovery operations.
Details of the Aircraft Involved
The plane involved in the accident was a Mitsubishi CRJ-200, which can carry up to 50 passengers. Saurya Airlines operates two of these aircraft.
This tragic incident has cast a shadow over Nepal, reminding us of the inherent risks in air travel. Our thoughts and condolences go out to the families and friends of the victims. As investigations continue, it is crucial for aviation authorities to thoroughly examine the causes of this crash to prevent future occurrences. Stay updated on this story and other news by following our page and sharing your thoughts in the comments.
