Tragic Plane Crash in Kathmandu Claims 18 Lives

A small plane crashed in Kathmandu, Nepal, killing 18 people while attempting to take off. The plane was headed to Pokhara for aircraft repairs. Only the captain survived. Rescue efforts were hampered by a fire. Nepal has a poor air safety record, with numerous fatalities since 2000.

A small plane crashed and caught fire during takeoff from Kathmandu, Nepal, killing 18 people, officials reported Wednesday.

The aircraft, carrying two crew members and 17 technicians to Pokhara, left only the captain alive, who is now receiving treatment, stated Tej Bahadur Poudyal, Tribhuvan International Airport spokesman.

Firefighters battled the blaze as thick black smoke filled the sky. Television footage showed the plane tilting before crashing and rescue workers sifting through charred debris in a field. The crashed plane, a Bombardier from Saurya Airlines, led officials to temporarily close the airport.