Tragic Saurya Airline Crash in Kathmandu: 18 Dead, Pilot Survives

In a devastating incident at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, a Saurya Airline CRJ7 plane crashed, resulting in the tragic loss of 18 lives. The sole survivor of this heartbreaking accident is the pilot, 37-year-old Manish Shakya, who is currently receiving medical treatment.

The aircraft, identified as 9N-AME, took off from Kathmandu at 11:11 AM local time, destined for Pokhara for maintenance. Shortly after takeoff, the plane veered right and crashed on the east side of the runway. Eyewitnesses reported seeing smoke billowing from the crash site as emergency services, including firefighters, Nepal Police, and the Nepali Army, rushed to the scene to control the fire and begin rescue operations.

Tribhuvan International Airport authorities confirmed the recovery of 18 bodies from the site, with Shakya being the only person found alive amidst the wreckage. He was promptly transported to KMC Hospital in Sinamangal for urgent medical care.

This flight was not carrying any passengers, only technical staff of Saurya Airlines, as it was on a maintenance-related journey to Pokhara. The crash has deeply affected the airline community, as all the victims were staff members dedicated to ensuring the safety and operation of the aircraft.

Following the crash, TIA has been temporarily closed, causing significant disruptions to both domestic and international flights. Many domestic flights have been halted, and international flights have been diverted to other airports until further notice. The closure is expected to remain in effect until the rescue operations are fully completed.

This incident has cast a shadow over Nepal’s aviation sector, with authorities and the airline conducting thorough investigations to determine the cause of the crash. The nation mourns the loss of those who perished and prays for the recovery of the brave pilot who survived this tragic event.