Plane Crash in Nepal Kills 18 People

Seventeen of the eighteen victims from a recent plane crash in Nepal have been handed over to their relatives, while the last body awaits identification. The crash, involving a Saurya Airlines CRJ-200 aircraft, occurred shortly after takeoff from Kathmandu, claiming the lives of 17 technicians and crew members, with only the pilot surviving. Families of the victims have expressed frustration over the lack of communication from the government and the airline regarding the cause of the crash and have raised concerns about compensation and insurance. Relatives gathered outside the hospital, mourning their loved ones and demanding answers about the incident, which highlights Nepal's concerning air safety record, marked by nearly 360 fatalities since 2000. Saurya Airlines has committed to supporting the victims' families amidst criticism for their silence during this crisis. The cause of the accident remains under investigation, and previous issues with Nepalese air safety have drawn international scrutiny, including a ban from the European Union on Nepalese airlines since 2013.