Nepal Plane Crash: Saurya Airlines Aircraft Crashes During Takeoff at Kathmandu Airport, 18 Dead
Kathmandu, 24th July 2024: A devastating plane crash occurred on Wednesday at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu. A Saurya Airlines plane crashed during takeoff, resulting in the tragic loss of 18 lives. The Kathmandu Post reported that 18 bodies have been recovered from the accident site.
According to TIA spokesperson Premnath Thakur, the aircraft was bound for Pokhara and had 19 people on board, including the aircrew. The crash happened around 11 am. Emergency services, including police and firefighters, are present at the scene, actively conducting rescue operations.
A security officer stationed at the airport informed a news agency that the pilot has been transported to the hospital. The officer confirmed that the fire on the plane has been extinguished. Rescue efforts continue as authorities work to manage the aftermath of the crash. Detailed information about the condition of the remaining passengers is not yet available.
Witnesses described the harrowing moments before the crash. According to the Kathmandu Post, the plane was taking off from the southern end of the runway when it suddenly turned over, causing the wing to strike the ground and the aircraft to catch fire. The plane then plunged into a ditch between the Buddha Air Hangar and the radar station on the eastern side of the runway. Videos circulating on social media show thick clouds of smoke billowing from the crash site.
