Nepal's Troubled Aviation History: Examining Fatal Air Crashes

 Nepal boasts a captivating landscape that leaves no room for doubt. However, when delving into the nation's history and mountainous topography, it becomes evident that the country has witnessed some of the most devastating air crashes. In the most recent incident, a small helicopter carrying five Mexican tourists and a Nepali pilot tragically crashed during its return from observing the majestic Himalayan peaks.

In response to this unfortunate event, Nepal's aviation regulator swiftly implemented a ban on "non-essential" helicopter flights, including those scheduled for sightseeing purposes. Additionally, an investigation team has been assembled to determine the cause of the helicopter crash that occurred on Tuesday.

Nepal's rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions have contributed to numerous aviation accidents in the past. According to a Reuters report, prior to the recent crash, Nepal has experienced 18 air crashes since 2000, resulting in the loss of 350 lives. Let us now explore some of the notable plane crashes that have made headlines in the country:

January 2023: ATR 72 Crash

Shortly before the most recent crash, Nepal witnessed a tragic incident in January of this year. A twin-engine ATR 72 aircraft, operated by Nepal's Yeti Airlines, crashed in Pokhara, claiming the lives of all 72 individuals on board. This catastrophe stands as the deadliest air crash in Nepal since 1992 when a Pakistan International Airlines plane carrying 167 passengers crashed into a hill while attempting to land in Kathmandu, the capital city.

May 2023: Tata Airplane Crash

In the preceding year, a Tata airplane carrying 22 passengers, including three crew members, tragically crashed in Nepal's Mustang district. Authorities speculated that adverse weather conditions may have played a role in the accident. Regrettably, all individuals on board lost their lives, and their remains were subsequently recovered.

February 2019: Helicopter Crash

In February 2019, a helicopter succumbed to bad weather conditions in eastern Nepal, resulting in the loss of all seven individuals on board, including Nepal's Tourism Minister, Rabindra Adhikari. This crash garnered significant attention due to the prominent figures among the victims.

March 2018: US-Bangla Airlines Crash

In March 2018, a US-Bangla Airlines aircraft carrying 71 individuals, including passengers from Bangladesh, tragically crashed in cloudy weather as it approached the hill-ringed airport in Nepal's capital. The aircraft, belonging to the Bombardier Q400 series, claimed the lives of 51 passengers.

February 2016: Series of Tragic Crashes

On February 24, 2016, a Twin Otter aircraft operated by Tara Air crashed, resulting in the loss of all 23 individuals on board. The ill-fated flight originated from Pokhara. Just two days later, on February 26, 2016, a small plane operated by Kasthamandap Airlines crashed in Nepal's Kalikot district, with two individuals feared dead.

February 2014: Nepal Airlines Corp Crash

Another devastating incident occurred in February 2014 when a small plane operated by the state-run Nepal Airlines Corp crashed amid unfavorable weather conditions. The crash claimed the lives of all 18 individuals on board.

August 2010: Fatalities in Bad Weather

In August 2010, 14 individuals, including four Americans, a Japanese citizen, and a British national, lost their lives when their plane crashed in adverse weather conditions. Furthermore, in December of the same year, a small plane crashed in the Himalayan foothills of remote east Nepal, tragically claiming the lives of all 22 passengers on board.

June 2006: Yeti Airlines Tragedy

A twin Otter passenger plane operated by Yeti Airlines met a tragic fate in June 2006, crashing just minutes before its intended landing. All nine individuals on board perished in the accident.

August 2002: Shangrila Air Crash

In August 2002, another Twin Otter plane, operated by Shangrila Air, collided with a mountain amidst unfavorable weather conditions in Nepal, resulting in the deaths of all 18 individuals on board.

July 2000: Royal Nepal Airlines Crash

During July 2000, a Canadian-built Twin Otter passenger plane belonging to the state-owned Royal Nepal Airlines crashed in western Nepal, claiming the lives of all 25 individuals on board.

These heart-wrenching air crashes in Nepal serve as somber reminders of the challenges posed by the country's mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather patterns. In light of these tragedies, it is imperative for aviation authorities and stakeholders to prioritize safety measures and continuously enhance aviation practices to mitigate future risks.