Buddha Air Aircraft Overshoots Runway at Bhadrapur Airport, All Safe
A Buddha Air aircraft carrying 55 individuals narrowly avoided disaster on Friday evening, January 2, 2026, as it overshot the runway during landing at Bhadrapur Airport in southeastern Nepal. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members escaped without injuries, according to reports from local authorities.
The incident occurred around 5:56 PM UTC, when the aircraft skidded off the runway by nearly 200 meters. After overshooting, the plane came to a halt in a grassy area adjacent to the airstrip, sustaining minor damage. Eyewitness accounts and videos shared on social media captured the moment the aircraft veered off course, highlighting the immediate aftermath of the event.
A team of technical experts has been dispatched to assess the aircraft's condition and investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident. The Nepal Civil Aviation Authority is also expected to conduct a thorough inquiry to determine the factors that led to the aircraft overshooting the runway.
While the incident ended without any injuries, it raises concerns about aviation safety in Nepal, a country that has faced scrutiny over its air travel safety record in recent years. The mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather conditions can pose significant challenges for pilots navigating the region.
Buddha Air, a prominent domestic airline in Nepal, has been operating flights for over two decades and is known for its service across various domestic routes. The airline has expressed relief that all individuals onboard are safe and has pledged to cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation.
The incident at Bhadrapur Airport serves as a reminder of the importance of stringent safety protocols in the aviation sector, particularly in regions with challenging flying conditions. Authorities are expected to review safety measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
As the investigation unfolds, passengers and aviation enthusiasts are closely watching how the situation develops and what measures will be implemented to enhance safety in Nepal's aviation industry.
