Nepal Plane Crash: Only pilot of 19 onboard plane survives marking 20th major crash in country since 2000
A passenger plane carrying 19 people crashed during takeoff from Tribhuvan International Airport, resulting in a devastating fire. Reuters, citing officials, reported that at least 18 bodies have been recovered so far. Multiple reports indicate that the pilot has been rescued and is currently receiving medical treatment. Emergency responders, including police and firefighters, are actively engaged at the crash site.
The Saurya Airlines flight, bound for Pokhara, skidded off the runway and ignited, causing a large column of smoke to rise. AFP, quoting a Nepali police spokesperson, stated that the flight was carrying two crew members and 17 Saurya Airlines staff members for a test flight.
Nepal is considered among riskiest countries for flying
Nepal poses significant aviation risks due to its high altitude and mountainous landscape, making it one of the most challenging countries for flying. According to a report by Bloomberg, the country's aviation authority emphasized "runway excursion" as a major safety concern in its Aviation Safety Report last year.
Nepal based situated Lukla airpot is one of the most dangerous airport in the world.
Recently in 2023 plane crash incident
Yeti Airlines Flight 691, a scheduled domestic passenger flight operated by Yeti Airlines from Kathmandu to Pokhara in Nepal, tragically ended in disaster on 15 January 2023. The ATR 72 aircraft being used for the route stalled and crashed during landing at Pokhara, resulting in the deaths of all 72 individuals on board upon impact.
