Tragic Plane Crash in Nepal Claims Lives of 18, Leaves One Survivor

A terrible plane crash occurred on Wednesday just after the takeoff from Kathmandu, Nepal, leading to the tragic deaths of 18 people. The only survivor is the pilot, who thankfully managed to escape but not without sustaining injuries.

All passengers aboard the Saurya Airlines flight were Nepali, except for one who was from Yemen. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal confirmed that all 18 bodies have been recovered from the wreckage. The Bombardier CRJ 200 aircraft was en route to Pokhara for maintenance, with most passengers being airline staff and mechanics.

The pilot has injuries to his eyes but is not in life-threatening condition, as reported by a doctor at the Kathmandu Medical College Hospital, where he is currently receiving treatment.

The plane took off at 11:11 a.m. local time and crashed shortly after, turning right but plummeting down in the eastern area of the Kathmandu airport. Local resident Ram Kumar Khatri Chetri described the scene, saying, ‘There was huge smoke and fire coming out. It was just horrible.’

This unfortunate incident took place during the monsoon season, although there was no rain at that moment. However, visibility was poor across the area, which could have contributed to the crash.

Tribhuvan International Airport, the primary airport for Nepal, faced closure for several hours while emergency teams and investigators worked at the scene. Grieving families gathered at the T.U. Teaching Hospital to receive the bodies of their loved ones, who will not be released for a day or two pending autopsy.

Among the victims was co-pilot Sushant Katwal, who had recently returned from training in France and was excited about his future in aviation. His family expressed their deep sorrow, calling him well-behaved and bright.

The ongoing safety concerns in Nepal’s aviation sector are highlighted by this crash, compounded by financial troubles within Saurya Airlines. Investigations continue as we await answers on the cause of the crash.