18 people killed in Nepal plane crash
At least 18 individuals lost their lives when a small aircraft crashed during takeoff from Kathmandu, Nepal's capital, on Wednesday.
The aircraft was transporting two crew members and 17 technicians to Pokhara city for the purpose of repairing another plane, according to officials.
"Only the captain survived and is currently receiving treatment at a hospital," stated Tej Bahadur Poudyal, spokesperson for Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport.
Television footage captured firefighters battling the flames and thick black smoke billowing into the sky. The plane was seen flying just above the runway before tilting and crashing.
Additional visuals depicted rescue workers sifting through the burned wreckage scattered across lush green fields.
Bodies were transported to ambulances on stretchers while local residents observed, as shown on television.
Officials identified the aircraft as a Bombardier, and reports indicated it was operated by Saurya Airlines. The airport was temporarily closed following the incident.
Nepal has faced criticism for its poor air safety record, with nearly 350 fatalities resulting from plane or helicopter crashes in the Himalayan nation since 2000.
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