Buddha Air Scare: Flight With 55 Onboard Veers Off Runway During Landing in Nepal
A Buddha Air flight with 55 people onboard veered off the runway during landing in Nepal, triggering safety checks. No casualties reported
A major aviation scare unfolded in Nepal when a Buddha Air flight carrying 55 people onboard veered off the runway during landing, triggering panic among passengers and prompting immediate action from airport authorities and aviation regulators. The incident, which occurred amid routine landing operations, has once again brought aviation safety in Nepal into sharp focus.
According to preliminary reports, the Buddha Air aircraft was attempting a scheduled landing when it lost alignment with the runway and skidded off, coming to a halt on the side of the airstrip. While the exact cause of the incident is still under investigation, early indications suggest that weather conditions, runway surface issues, or technical factors may have contributed to the scare.
The aircraft was carrying 55 people onboard, including passengers and crew members. Fortunately, no injuries or fatalities were reported, a fact that brought relief to families and authorities alike.
Several passengers described the experience as terrifying, stating that they felt a sudden jolt as the aircraft touched down before swerving unexpectedly.
“There was a loud noise and the plane shook. People were scared and shouting,” said one passenger. “We were relieved when the doors opened and the crew told us everyone was safe.”
Cabin crew members acted swiftly, following emergency protocols and ensuring passengers remained calm until evacuation procedures were completed. Emergency response teams were also deployed immediately as a precaution.
Airport officials confirmed that emergency services were placed on high alert moments after the aircraft veered off the runway. Fire tenders, ambulances, and security personnel were rushed to the site to ensure passenger safety and prevent any secondary risks.
“The situation was brought under control quickly. All passengers and crew were safely evacuated,” an airport official said, adding that runway operations were temporarily suspended to allow inspection and recovery work.
Buddha Air, one of Nepal’s leading domestic airlines, acknowledged the incident and said it is fully cooperating with aviation authorities.
In a brief statement, the airline said:
A Buddha Air flight experienced a runway excursion during landing. All passengers and crew are safe. An internal review is underway, and we are assisting the Civil Aviation Authority in its investigation.”
The airline also emphasized that passenger safety remains its top priority and that additional checks would be conducted across its fleet as a precautionary measure.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has ordered a detailed investigation to determine the cause of the runway excursion. Aviation experts are expected to analyze multiple factors, including:
- Aircraft condition and maintenance records
- Pilot actions and communication with air traffic control
- Weather conditions at the time of landing
- Runway surface quality and braking effectiveness
Officials confirmed that flight data recorders, if applicable, along with pilot reports and air traffic control logs, will be examined thoroughly.
Nepal’s airports often operate under challenging conditions due to terrain, weather variability, and infrastructure constraints. While no official confirmation has been made, aviation analysts believe that wet or slippery runway conditions could have played a role.
Runway excursions are among the most common aviation incidents globally and often occur during landing, especially when braking effectiveness is reduced or when aircraft speed and alignment are affected.
Following the incident, flight operations at the airport were briefly disrupted, causing delays and rescheduling for several domestic flights. Authorities later confirmed that services resumed after safety inspections and clearance.
Passengers affected by the delays were assisted by airline staff, and alternate arrangements were made where required.
The incident has once again raised questions about aviation safety standards in Nepal, a country known for its difficult flying conditions due to mountainous terrain and rapidly changing weather.
In recent years, Nepal has taken steps to improve aviation safety, including infrastructure upgrades, pilot training enhancements, and regulatory reforms. However, incidents like this highlight the need for continuous monitoring, investment, and strict enforcement of safety protocols.
Aviation experts stress that while the safe outcome of this incident is encouraging, preventive measures are crucial to avoid similar scares in the future.
Aviation analysts say that the successful evacuation without injuries reflects effective crew training and emergency preparedness.
“Such incidents test the resilience of aviation systems. The fact that everyone walked away safely is a positive outcome, but the root cause must be identified to prevent recurrence,” said an aviation safety expert.
Many passengers took to social media to express gratitude toward the flight crew and emergency responders.
“The crew handled the situation very professionally. They kept us calm and ensured everyone got out safely,” one passenger wrote.
These accounts underline the importance of crew readiness and clear communication during emergencies.
The investigation report is expected to be released after a detailed technical review. Depending on the findings, authorities may recommend:
- Operational changes for landings during specific weather conditions
- Additional pilot training modules
- Runway maintenance or upgrades
- Enhanced safety audits for airlines
Until then, Buddha Air and aviation authorities have assured the public that all safety checks are being reinforced.
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