Understanding Why Plane Crashes are Frequent in Nepal

Ah, the skies above Nepal-a land of breathtaking mountains, ancient temples, and a history of aviation challenges. One of the main reasons for frequent plane crashes in Nepal is its rugged terrain and unpredictable weather. The country's topography, with eight of the world's 14 highest peaks, creates formidable obstacles for aviation. Pilots must navigate small airports in remote hills or near cloud-covered peaks, where sudden weather changes, such as swirling winds and low visibility, make flying extremely tricky. This challenging environment demands precise navigation through valleys and over ridges, all while avoiding towering peaks.
Additionally, Nepal's scarcity of flat land has led to the creation of tabletop runways. These runways, constructed by leveling peaks, have sheer drops at one or both ends, making landings particularly hazardous. Exceptional piloting skills are required to safely land on these surfaces, and any slight miscalculation can result in disaster. The aging fleet of aircraft in Nepal exacerbates the problem. Many planes lack modern features and facilities, and poor maintenance further increases the risk. In 2013, the European Union banned air carriers certified in Nepal due to safety concerns, highlighting the need for significant improvements in aviation safety standards.
Another critical factor is crew management and training. Pilots in Nepal often require better training to handle the unique challenges posed by the landscape. Some crashes have been attributed to poor decision-making and lack of awareness of standard operating procedures. The regulatory framework also plays a role; the Civil Aviation Authority in Nepal manages both regulation and airport operations, creating a conflict of interest that can lead to corruption and mismanagement. Despite these challenges, there are ongoing efforts to improve safety, with the hope that Nepal's skies will become safer for all who venture into them.