Tragic aviation accident in Kathmandu: Pilot lone survivor

July 24, 2024 The Nepal Journal

A tragic aviation accident occurred on Wednesday, July 24th, when a Saurya Airlines plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Tribhuvan International Airport. The incident resulted in the loss of 18 lives, with only the pilot surviving and undergoing medical treatment.

The aircraft, carrying a crew of two and 17 airline staff members, was en route to Pokhara for maintenance. The cause of the crash remains under investigation. Emergency responders swiftly mobilized to the scene, but the extent of the damage was severe.

Most of the deceased were technical staff members who were flying to Pokhara for the C-check of the aeroplane. The C-check or extensive maintenance process takes one to two weeks, say aircraft technicians.

Nepal has a history of aviation accidents, often attributed to challenging geographical conditions and weather patterns. The country’s mountainous terrain and remote airstrips pose significant risks to air travel. While safety measures have improved over time, the aviation industry continues to face challenges.

This latest tragedy underscores the ongoing concerns surrounding air safety in Nepal. As investigations into the cause of the crash proceed, the nation mourns the loss of life and hopes to prevent similar incidents in the future.