An aircraft belonging to Kathmandu-based Saurya Airlines crashed during takeoff this morning, claiming several lives. The flight was scheduled between Nepal’s capital city, Kathmandu, and Pokhara – a popular tourist hub. The incident took place at around 11:00 local time, with police and firefighting services reaching the accident site and responding to the situation.
18 reportedly killed
According to reports, the aircraft was carrying 19 people, including crew members. Casualties have also been reported, and while official figures will be confirmed by authorities later, some reports suggest that 18 people have died, with the captain of the flight rushed to the hospital.
According to the Kathmandu Post, eyewitnesses said that the aircraft was taking off from the southern end of the runway at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport and flipped suddenly, with its wing hitting the ground. The plane, which was soon engulfed in flames, also dropped into a gorge on the eastern side of the runway, as per reports.
According to ch-aviation, Saurya Airlines has three Bombardier CRJ200ER aircraft, of which two are in active service.
This is a developing story. Please watch this space for more updates.