In a devastating event that underscores the dangers of aviation in Nepal, a Saurya Airline aircraft with 19 passengers aboard caught fire during takeoff in Kathmandu. Sadly, only the captain, Manish Shakya, survived the crash, as all other passengers lost their lives in the tragic incident that occurred at Tribhuvan International Airport en route to Pokhara.
The Civil Aviation Authority reported the crash of the 9N-AME/CRJ 200 aircraft, highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by Nepal's aviation industry. The country's unique geography, characterized by mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather, presents significant obstacles for safe air travel, with many remote regions depending on flights due to limited road access.
Despite the vital role of air travel in connecting various parts of Nepal, the industry grapples with issues such as outdated aircraft, insufficient infrastructure, and inadequate regulatory oversight. The alarming history of aviation disasters, including multiple crashes claiming numerous lives over the years, raises serious concerns about the safety standards of domestic airlines operating in the country.