A passenger plane carrying 19 people crashed during takeoff in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, early Wednesday morning.
The Saurya Airlines aircraft, en route to Pokhara, experienced a fiery disaster shortly after its departure at approximately 11:15 am local time (05:30 GMT), according to a statement from Nepal’s military.
READ ALSO: Commercial plane crash-lands at Abuja Airport, tyre bursts into flames
“Rescue work is ongoing,” the military statement confirmed, noting that the army’s quick response team was assisting in the efforts. The Kathmandu Post reported that the plane had skidded off the runway and caught fire, releasing a significant plume of smoke.
Kathmandu airport’s general manager, Jagannath Niroula, indicated that further details about the incident were still being confirmed. The aircraft, a Bombardier CRJ 200 jet, was exclusively operated by Saurya Airlines, as noted on the airline’s website.
Nepal’s aviation sector has seen growth in recent years, facilitating travel between remote areas and attracting international tourists. However, it has struggled with safety issues, including inadequate training and maintenance. The European Union has imposed a ban on Nepali carriers within its airspace due to these concerns.
Nepal’s challenging geography, characterized by treacherous mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather, adds to the difficulties of flying in the region. The country is known for having some of the world’s most challenging runways, which pose significant risks even for experienced pilots.
This crash follows a tragic incident in January 2023, when a Yeti Airlines flight crashed while landing in Pokhara, killing all 72 passengers and crew. This was the deadliest aviation accident in Nepal since 1992, when a Pakistan International Airlines plane crashed near Kathmandu, claiming 167 lives. Earlier that year, a Thai Airways aircraft also crashed near the same airport, resulting in 113 fatalities.
Authorities have not yet released the identities of those aboard the ill-fated flight. Fire crews continue to work at the scene as investigations into the cause of the crash proceed.
