A devastating plane crash in Nepal's capital, Kathmandu, claimed the lives of 18 passengers on Wednesday.

The lone survivor, the plane's pilot, is currently receiving treatment for serious injuries at a local hospital, according to national aviation officials.

The aircraft, operated by Nepal's Saurya Airlines, took off from Tribhuvan International Airport at approximately 11:15 a.m. local time (12:30 a.m. Eastern). Shortly after takeoff, a fire broke out on board, causing the plane to crash near the runway's east side. The country's civil aviation authority confirmed the timeline and details in a statement.

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Image Credit: X Screenshot - Lito Sousa
X Screenshot - Lito Sousa

Dramatic footage posted online captured the plane's final moments, showing it descending sharply with its left wing nearly vertical before crashing and erupting in flames. Emergency responders, including dozens of rescuers, fire engines, and ambulances, quickly arrived at the scene.

Authorities reported that rescuers recovered 18 bodies from the crash site. The victims included 16 technical staff members of Saurya Airlines, two crew members, and one Yemeni national. The pilot, miraculously, survived the crash but is in serious condition.

The flight was headed to Pokhara, a well-known tourist destination in Nepal, famous for its stunning Himalayan views and proximity to iconic peaks like Mount Everest.

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