Tragedy Strikes Kathmandu as Saurya Airlines Plane Crashes During Takeoff
New Delhi: On Wednesday, July 24, a devastating plane crash occurred at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, resulting in the deaths of 18 people. The Saurya Airlines aircraft, which was en route to Pokhara, tragically went down during takeoff, leaving only one pilot as the sole survivor.
The incident happened as the plane was attempting to lift off from the airport serving Nepal’s capital. Eyewitnesses reported that the aircraft slipped off the runway before crashing into the ground. Rescue teams and firefighters were swiftly dispatched to the scene, where thick black smoke billowed into the sky. Emergency crews worked tirelessly to extinguish the fire and recover the charred remains of the plane. The tragic accident has left the airport temporarily closed, significantly disrupting both domestic and international flights.
The sole survivor, the pilot, was transported to Kathmandu Medical College Hospital for treatment. According to medical staff who spoke on condition of anonymity, the pilot is in stable condition. The plane had 19 people on board, including two pilots and 17 passengers. The passenger list included one foreign national, though their identity and nationality have not yet been disclosed. The remaining passengers were all Nepali nationals.
The crash occurred amidst challenging weather conditions, with low visibility reported across Kathmandu despite the absence of rain. The airport, which is situated in a valley surrounded by mountainous terrain, is known for its difficult approach and departure procedures, adding to the complexities faced by pilots.
As investigations into the cause of the crash continue, the focus remains on supporting the victims’ families and addressing the significant disruptions caused by the airport closure.
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