18 killed in plane crash in Nepal

International Desk Published: 24 July 2024, 01:34 PM | Updated: 24 July 2024, 01:43 PM

The Saurya Airlines plane was en route to Pokhara. Photo: The Kathmandu Post

At least 18 people were killed after a Saurya Airlines aircraft crashed during takeoff at the Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Nepal's Kathmandu on Wednesday.

The accident occurred after the Pokhara-bound flight suffered a runway excursion during takeoff, said TIA Spokesperson Subash Jha.

Captain MR Shakya has been rushed to hospital, said Jha.

Nineteen people, including crew members, were aboard the plane, reports The Kathmandu Post.

Eyewitnesses said that the plane was taking off from the Southern-end of the runway (Koteshwor side) and suddenly flipped with the wing tip hitting the ground. The aircraft caught fire immediately. It then plunged to a gorge on the eastern side of the runway-between Buddha Air hanger and the radar station.

Thick billows of smoke are seen in the airport.

Police and firefighters are carrying out rescue operations at the accident site.