18 passengers die in Nepal plane crash

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© Anurup Pathak, CC BY-SA 4.0

A plane crash on July 24, 2024, at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal, claimed the lives of 18 passengers, leaving the pilot the sole survivor. 

The pilot, whose identity has not yet been released, was rescued from the flaming wreckage and received medical attention.

The aircraft, a Bombardier CRJ 200, carried two crew members and 17 passengers, all airline employees. 

The ill-fated flight, operated by Saurya Airlines, was en route to Pokhara, a popular tourist destination in Nepal, and was scheduled for maintenance on arrival.

Eyewitnesses at the airport reported seeing the plane engulfed in flames shortly after takeoff. The cause of the crash is under investigation, but preliminary reports suggest that the aircraft may have experienced a technical malfunction during takeoff.

Emergency services rushed to the scene, but the fire was too intense to save the passengers. 

Nepal, known for its challenging terrain and unpredictable weather conditions, has a history of aviation accidents. 

The tragic incident has left the nation in mourning, with condolences pouring in from around the world. The families of the victims have been offered support and assistance by the airline and the government.