A domestic flight operated by Buddha Air experienced a runway excursion while landing at Bhadrapur Airport, raising fresh attention on monsoon-season operational challenges in Nepal’s eastern aviation sector. The aircraft, operating as Flight 901 from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur, veered off the runway during the landing roll. All passengers and crew members onboard were reported safe, with no injuries sustained.
According to information confirmed by the airline, the aircraft involved was an ATR 72 bearing registration 9N-AMF. At the time of the incident, the flight was carrying 51 passengers along with four crew members. The aircraft had already touched down when it exited the runway surface, coming to a stop without causing harm to those onboard. Immediate safety procedures were followed, and the situation was brought under control swiftly.
Calm Handling Ensures Passenger Safety
Eyewitness accounts from the airport indicated that the landing phase appeared routine until the aircraft slowed down on the runway. As the aircraft deviated from the paved surface, airport emergency protocols were activated. Cabin crew members reassured passengers, and there was no sign of panic inside the aircraft. Within a short time, passengers were safely accounted for and assisted by airport personnel.
Buddha Air, in its official communication, confirmed that both passengers and crew were unharmed. The airline emphasized that safety remains its highest priority and that all standard operating procedures were followed during and after the incident. The professional handling by the flight crew has been credited as a key factor in preventing injuries or damage escalation.
Technical and Relief Team Dispatched
Soon after the incident, Buddha Air initiated arrangements to dispatch a technical and relief team from Kathmandu to Bhadrapur. The team’s role includes conducting a detailed inspection of the aircraft, assessing runway conditions, and coordinating with airport authorities to support recovery operations. The airline has also been working closely with local aviation officials to ensure minimal disruption to other scheduled flights.
Passengers affected by the incident were provided necessary assistance at the airport, including guidance on onward travel and rebooking options where required. The airline has stated that it will continue to support passengers until all logistical issues are fully resolved.
Weather and Runway Conditions Under Review
While the airline has not officially attributed the incident to a specific cause, aviation experts note that runway excursions during the monsoon season are not uncommon in Nepal. Eastern Nepal, including Jhapa district where Bhadrapur Airport is located, often experiences sudden rainfall, reduced braking effectiveness, and variable wind conditions during this time of year.
Authorities are expected to examine factors such as runway surface condition, weather at the time of landing, aircraft performance data, and pilot reports. Any contributing elements will be documented as part of the standard safety review process.
Airport Operations Temporarily Affected
Following the incident, airport operations at Bhadrapur experienced temporary disruptions. Some flights were delayed as safety checks and runway assessments were carried out. Airport officials worked in coordination with the airline to ensure that the runway could be safely used once cleared and verified.
Bhadrapur Airport serves as a vital gateway to eastern Nepal, connecting the region with Kathmandu and supporting both business and tourism-related travel. Ensuring uninterrupted and safe operations at the airport is therefore critical for regional mobility.
Industry Perspective on Runway Excursions
Runway excursions are categorized globally as one of the more common types of aviation incidents, particularly during landing. Aviation safety specialists explain that such events do not necessarily indicate a mechanical failure. Instead, they can result from a combination of factors, including surface friction, weather variability, and operational margins during landing.
Nepal’s domestic aviation sector operates in a challenging environment marked by diverse terrain, short runways, and rapidly changing weather patterns. Airlines operating within the country are required to adhere to strict safety standards, and incidents like this are subject to thorough review to identify lessons and preventive measures.
Buddha Air’s Safety Record and Response
Buddha Air is one of Nepal’s leading domestic carriers, operating an extensive network of flights across the country. The airline has built a reputation for maintaining operational reliability in demanding conditions. Its swift communication following the Bhadrapur incident and immediate deployment of support teams reflect established crisis response protocols.
Aviation analysts note that transparent communication and rapid response are critical elements in maintaining passenger confidence. By confirming passenger safety promptly and outlining corrective actions, the airline helped prevent misinformation and unnecessary concern.
Investigation and Next Steps
As per standard aviation practice, a detailed assessment will follow to determine the precise circumstances surrounding the runway excursion. Findings from the review may result in operational advisories, infrastructure recommendations, or procedural updates if necessary. These measures aim to enhance safety margins and reduce the likelihood of similar occurrences in the future.
Both airline and airport authorities are expected to cooperate fully during this process. Any recommendations arising from the assessment will be implemented in accordance with national aviation regulations.
A Reminder of Aviation Safety Preparedness
The incident at Bhadrapur serves as a reminder that while aviation remains one of the safest modes of transport, constant vigilance is essential. The safe outcome in this case underscores the effectiveness of trained crews, established safety systems, and coordinated emergency response.
For passengers, the event ended as a brief disruption rather than a tragedy. For the aviation industry, it offers an opportunity to re-evaluate operational conditions during challenging weather periods and reinforce safety practices across the network.
As operations normalize at Bhadrapur Airport, authorities and airlines alike continue to emphasize that passenger safety remains non-negotiable. The successful handling of this incident stands as an example of how preparedness and professionalism can make a decisive difference when unexpected situations arise.
