Tragic Incident at Kathmandu Airport
A terrifying video has surfaced showing the moments leading up to the crash of a Bombardier CRJ 200 jet at Kathmandu airport. The aircraft, operated by Saurya Airlines, crashed shortly after takeoff, resulting in a deadly fireball.
Final moments captured
The video begins with the plane, already out of control, just a few hundred feet above the ground. The aircraft, en route to Pokhara, tilts right, then sharply left before plunging to the ground and exploding. The crash occurred at 11:15 am local time.
Of the 19 people on board, including two crew members and 17 passengers, 18 have been confirmed dead. The sole survivor, the pilot, was rushed to a local hospital, according to a security official at the airport.
Authorities have yet to determine the cause of the crash. Earlier footage from airport CCTV showed the plane slamming into the runway, skidding, and bursting into flames.
Aviation safety concerns
Nepal’s aviation sector has expanded rapidly but faces criticism for poor safety standards, inadequate training, and maintenance issues. Consequently, the European Union has banned Nepali carriers from its airspace. The country’s challenging terrain and unpredictable weather further complicate aviation safety.
Historical context
This crash echoes past tragedies in Nepal, including a Yeti Airlines crash in January last year that killed 72 and the deadly 1992 crashes involving Pakistani and Thai Airways jets.
The incident has also spotlighted the dangers of tabletop runways, which are elevated with steep drops on sides, leaving minimal margin for error. India has five such airports, with Kozhikode and Mangaluru having experienced major crashes.
Nepal’s aviation sector must address these safety concerns to prevent future tragedies.