An aircraft carrying 19 passengers crashed during takeoff at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu on Wednesday. The plane, operated by Saurya Airlines, was scheduled to fly to Pokhara when it encountered a tragic accident. According to Reuters, at least 18 bodies have been recovered from the wreckage, which caught fire after skidding off the runway.
The incident occurred as the plane was attempting to depart from the Kathmandu-based airport. Gyanendra Bhul, an information officer at Tribhuvan International Airport, reported that only technical staff from the airline were aboard at the time of the crash. The exact circumstances leading to the accident are still under investigation, and further details are awaited.
This latest tragedy follows a similar devastating event that took place in January of the previous year. In that incident, a Yeti Airlines plane, carrying 68 passengers, crashed in Pokhara, resulting in the death of all onboard. The recurrence of such accidents underscores the ongoing challenges and risks associated with aviation safety in the region.
The crash at Tribhuvan International Airport has prompted a response from emergency services and aviation authorities, who are working to manage the aftermath and gather more information about the cause of the accident. The incident has raised concerns about aviation safety standards and procedures, highlighting the need for thorough investigations to prevent future tragedies. As authorities continue their efforts, the focus remains on providing support to the victims’ families and addressing the broader implications of this catastrophic event.