On July 24, 2024, a devastating plane crash occurred at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport involving a Saurya Airlines aircraft. The plane, which was en route to the popular tourist destination of Pokhara, had 19 people on board, including three crew members.
The Incident
The plane, identified as 9N-AME (CRJ 200), experienced difficulties during takeoff and veered off the runway at around 11 a.m. local time. Witnesses reported that the aircraft flipped abruptly, its wing tip striking the ground before it plunged into a gorge at the eastern side of the runway. The crash resulted in a fire, with thick smoke billowing from the site, prompting immediate rescue operations by police and firefighters.
Tragically, 18 out of the 19 people on board lost their lives. The sole survivor was the pilot, Captain Manish Shakya, who was quickly transported to a hospital in Sinamangal for treatment. The identities of the passengers and crew are yet to be fully disclosed, but it has been confirmed that the aircraft was carrying technical staff from Saurya Airlines.
Rescue and Investigation
Rescue operations were swift, with emergency crews working tirelessly to manage the aftermath. The airport was closed temporarily to facilitate the rescue and recovery efforts. The cause of the crash is still under investigation, with initial reports suggesting that the aircraft may have encountered technical difficulties or environmental challenges during takeoff
Nepal Plane Crash History
Nepal has a concerning history of aviation accidents, averaging about one significant incident per year. This latest crash adds to a series of fatal accidents that have plagued the country’s aviation sector. Notably, in January 2023, a Yeti Airlines flight crashed near Pokhara, claiming the lives of all 72 people on board, and in May 2022, a Tara Air plane crashed in Mustang, resulting in 22 fatalities.
The Plane crash of Saurya Airlines flight 9N-AME is a somber reminder of the challenges faced by Nepal’s aviation industry. As investigations continue, the focus remains on uncovering the cause of the tragedy and ensuring that measures are put in place to prevent future incidents. The aviation community and the country mourn the loss of lives and extend their condolences to the families affected by this disaster.
