On July 24, 2024, a tragic accident occurred at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) involving a Saurya Airlines CRJ200 aircraft. The plane, which was bound for Pokhara, crashed during take-off, resulting in the loss of 18 lives.
By Aditya M
The Incident
The Saurya Airlines flight, a Bombardier CRJ200, was attempting to take off from Kathmandu when it skidded off the runway and caught fire. The aircraft had 19 people on board, including two pilots and 17 passengers. Unfortunately, only the pilot survived the crash and was taken to Kathmandu Medical College Hospital for treatment.
Eyewitness Accounts
Eyewitnesses described a horrifying scene as the plane tilted sideways and crashed nose-first into the ground. The crash occurred at around 11:00 local time, and emergency services were quick to respond. Despite their efforts, the fire that engulfed the plane made it difficult to rescue the passengers.
The Aftermath
The crash has left a deep impact on the aviation community and the families of the victims. Tribhuvan International Airport was temporarily closed as emergency crews worked to control the fire and recover the bodies. The bodies of the victims were taken to T.U. Teaching Hospital in Kathmandu for autopsy.
Investigations and Safety Concerns
Initial reports suggest that visibility was low at the time of the crash, although it was not raining. The exact cause of the crash is still under investigation, but the incident has raised concerns about the safety of air travel in Nepal, especially during the monsoon season.
A History of Aviation Challenges in Nepal
Nepal’s challenging terrain and weather conditions have historically made aviation difficult. Tribhuvan International Airport, located in a valley surrounded by mountains, is known for its challenging approach and departure paths. This crash is a stark reminder of the risks associated with flying in such conditions.
Moving Forward
As investigations continue, the focus will be on understanding what went wrong and how similar tragedies can be prevented in the future. The aviation community, along with the families of the victims, mourns this devastating loss and hopes for improved safety measures to ensure such incidents do not recur.
This tragic event underscores the importance of stringent safety protocols and continuous improvements in aviation safety standards. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives in this unfortunate accident.
Add comment
Comments