Kathmandu, May 11: A significant incident was narrowly avoided at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport involving a Turkish Airlines flight. According to local media reports, a fire broke out in the landing gear of the aircraft during its landing on Monday morning. This incident led to chaos at the airport, prompting a temporary closure for approximately 98 minutes.
The airport operations were halted at 6:34 AM after the fire was detected in the right main landing gear. Flight operations resumed at 8:12 AM, as reported by The Kathmandu Post, citing Gyanendra Bhul, the assistant spokesperson for the Nepal Civil Aviation Authority.
During the incident, the wide-body aircraft became stuck on taxiway Bravo. Airport officials noted that around 30% of the aircraft remained on the runway while the remaining 70% was positioned on the taxiway. This situation forced authorities to suspend all domestic and international flight services.
Nepali media, referencing airport officials, reported that there were a total of 288 people on board, including 11 crew members. Initial information indicated that a tire in the right main landing gear caught fire.
Authorities suggested that the cause could be attributed to a hard landing, tire pressure issues, or other technical difficulties, although a thorough investigation is ongoing. Spokesperson Bhul confirmed that passengers were safely evacuated using emergency slides.
According to information provided by the airline, two passengers sustained minor injuries to their fingers. Following the incident, the aircraft has been grounded. Arrangements have been made for hotel accommodations for passengers departing from Kathmandu, and officials are organizing alternative flights for those needing to travel elsewhere.
A maintenance, repair, and overhaul team will investigate the matter at the airport. Additionally, the Flight Safety Standards Department of the Civil Aviation Authority will conduct a detailed examination. Bhul stated, “We have initiated a comprehensive technical assessment of the incident.” Turkish Airlines operates five flights weekly from Istanbul to Nepal.
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