A passenger aircraft operated by Turkish Airlines caught fire while landing at Tribhuvan International Airport in Nepal’s capital, Kathmandu, on Monday morning, 11 May. The incident occurred when flames were seen coming from the aircraft’s landing gear shortly after touchdown on the runway.
According to reports confirmed by several international media organisations, including Al Jazeera, all 289 people on board were evacuated safely without injury. The aircraft was carrying 278 passengers and 11 crew members at the time of the incident.
The aircraft, operating as Turkish Airlines flight TK726, had departed from Istanbul and arrived in Kathmandu during the early hours of the morning. Airport emergency personnel responded immediately after the fire was detected on the wheels during landing. Firefighters stationed at the airport brought the blaze under control within a short period, preventing further damage or escalation.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the exact cause of the fire. Indian news agency Asian News International reported that investigators are examining the circumstances surrounding the incident. Nepal’s civil aviation authorities have already initiated an official inquiry.
Incident Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Airline | Turkish Airlines |
| Flight Number | TK726 |
| Departure City | Istanbul, Türkiye |
| Destination | Kathmandu, Nepal |
| Location of Incident | Tribhuvan International Airport |
| Nature of Incident | Fire on landing gear during landing |
| Total Occupants | 289 |
| Passengers | 278 |
| Crew Members | 11 |
| Casualties | None reported |
Tribhuvan International Airport is widely regarded as one of the more challenging airports for flight operations because of Nepal’s mountainous terrain and the airport’s geographical setting. The airport is often described as a “table-top” airport, meaning it is situated on elevated terrain with steep gradients surrounding parts of the runway area. Pilots operating flights to and from Kathmandu are generally required to possess specialised operational training and experience.
Since 2010, the airport has experienced several significant aviation incidents, including a fatal aircraft crash reported last year. Aviation experts have frequently highlighted the operational difficulties associated with mountainous weather conditions, restricted airspace, and runway limitations in the region.
Although no casualties were reported in Monday’s incident, the event has again drawn attention to aviation safety procedures and technical preparedness at Nepal’s main international airport. Witnesses at the scene stated that there was confusion among passengers after reports of the fire spread inside the cabin during evacuation procedures. However, crew members and airport rescue personnel managed the evacuation and ensured that all passengers exited the aircraft safely.
Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority stated that it would not make detailed comments until the investigation is completed. Initial assessments are reportedly focusing on the possibility of a mechanical fault, although officials have not released any confirmed findings.