Kathmandu: A tragic incident occurred this morning when a Saurya Airlines plane crashed near Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). So far, at least 16 bodies have been recovered from the wreckage by firefighters.

Deputy Director of Civil Aviation, Sanjay Kumar, reported that rescue efforts are ongoing. The exact number of people on board remains uncertain, but it is estimated that there were between 22 to 23 passengers. The bodies have been transported to the Teaching Hospital for post-mortem examinations.

Captain Manish Shakya, 37, was rescued and is currently receiving treatment at KMC Hospital.

The aircraft, en route to Pokhara, skidded off the runway and caught fire. The plane was carrying 19 passengers, including crew members. Security personnel from all three security agencies have been deployed to extinguish the fire, according to Gaurav Kumar KC, spokesperson of the Nepali Army.

Minister for Home Affairs, Ramesh Lekhak, has arrived at the airport to assess the situation. The cause of the accident is under investigation.