Buddha Air Plane Overshoots Runway in Nepal, All Passengers Uninjured
A Buddha Air aircraft carrying 55 people overshot the runway at Bhadrapur Airport in Nepal on the evening of January 2, 2026. Fortunately, all passengers and crew members aboard escaped without injuries, marking a fortunate outcome in what could have been a far more serious incident.
The plane, which was landing at Bhadrapur Airport, skidded off the airstrip by nearly 200 meters before coming to a halt in a grassy area adjacent to the runway. The aircraft sustained minor damage, and a technical team has been dispatched to assess the situation and investigate the cause of the overshooting.
Eyewitness accounts and video footage shared on social media depict the scene shortly after the incident. The aircraft can be seen off the runway, with emergency response teams arriving to ensure the safety of all onboard. Passengers were reportedly shaken but relieved to have escaped unharmed.
The incident raises important questions about aviation safety in Nepal, a country known for its challenging flying conditions due to its mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather patterns. Despite these factors, the aviation industry in Nepal has made significant strides in improving safety standards over the years, although accidents still occasionally occur.
Buddha Air has been a key player in Nepal's domestic aviation sector, operating flights to various destinations within the country, as well as international routes. Instances of aircraft overshooting runways, while serious, are relatively rare, and authorities are expected to conduct a thorough investigation to prevent future occurrences.
This incident comes at a time when the aviation sector is gradually recovering from the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, with increasing passenger volumes and flight operations. As such, maintaining high safety standards remains a top priority for airlines and regulatory bodies alike.
In conclusion, the prompt response from emergency teams and the absence of injuries among passengers highlight the effectiveness of safety protocols in place. As investigations continue, the aviation community in Nepal will be closely monitoring the situation to ensure that such incidents are minimized in the future.
