A devastating plane crash occurred in Kathmandu, Nepal, on Wednesday, claiming the lives of at least 18 people.
The tragic incident involved a CRJ7 regional jet operated by Saurya Airlines, which crashed moments after taking off from the Nepalese capital. The plane was headed to Pokhara, a popular tourist destination.
Emergency responders rushed to the scene and recovered the bodies of 18 victims, while also rescuing the pilot, who miraculously survived the crash. The pilot, identified as the sole survivor, was reportedly injured and is receiving medical attention.
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, the crash occurred at approximately 11:11 a.m. local time.
Eyewitness accounts suggest that the plane suddenly turned to the right during takeoff, veered off the runway, and crashed to the east of the runway.
The exact cause of the crash is still unknown and under investigation.
Witnesses described the harrowing scene, stating that the plane’s wingtip hit the ground, causing it to flip and catch fire before plunging into a nearby gorge. Footage captured from the airport terminal shows the plane flying low to the ground, tilted on its right side, before crashing and erupting into a massive ball of flames.
This latest incident highlights the challenges and risks associated with aviation in Nepal, which is considered one of the most difficult places to fly in the world. The country’s rugged terrain, unpredictable weather conditions, and limited infrastructure contribute to the high number of collisions and accidents in recent years.An investigation into the cause of the crash is currently underway, and authorities will work to determine the factors that led to this tragic incident.