Government Forms Commission to Investigate Saurya Airlines Crash

KATHMANDU: The government has established a five-member commission to investigate the causes of the Saurya Airlines Bombardier CRJ-200 aircraft accident that occurred on Wednesday morning. The formation of the commission was decided during an emergency Cabinet meeting held on the same day.

The investigation commission is led by Ratish Chandra Lal Suman, the former director general of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN). Other members of the commission include Captain Dipu Jwarchan, Pulchok Engineering Campus professors Kuldip Bhattarai and Sanjay Adhikari, and Air Traffic Control Officer Mukesh Dangol. The commission has been tasked with submitting its report within 45 days.

The Saurya Airlines aircraft crashed while attempting to take off from Tribhuvan International Airport at around 11 AM on Wednesday. Tragically, 18 people lost their lives in the incident, while Captain Manish Shakya was rescued alive.

Prithvi Subba Gurung, spokesperson for the government, emphasized that domestic airlines companies will be held accountable for conducting regular aircraft testing. “The CAAN will be responsible for intensively monitoring the domestic airlines companies to ensure safety and compliance,” Gurung stated.

In addition to forming the commission, the Cabinet meeting decided to honor the victims by flying the national flag at half-mast on Thursday.

This tragic incident has highlighted the need for rigorous safety protocols and regular maintenance checks in Nepal’s aviation sector. The government’s swift response in forming the commission underscores its commitment to uncovering the truth behind the accident and preventing future occurrences.

As the investigation proceeds, the aviation community and the general public will be looking to the commission’s findings to understand the causes of the crash and to ensure that necessary measures are implemented to enhance flight safety. The CAAN’s role in monitoring and regulating domestic airlines will be critical in rebuilding trust and ensuring the safety of air travel in Nepal.

The Saurya Airlines accident has brought to the forefront the crucial importance of stringent safety standards and vigilant oversight in the aviation industry, as the nation mourns the loss of lives and seeks answers to prevent such tragedies in the future.