A Summit Air flight bound for Lukla was forced to return to Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) this morning after experiencing a technical issue mid-flight. The aircraft, a Twin Otter with flight number 301, took off from Kathmandu but encountered a problem after reaching the Phaplu region in Solukhumbu.
According to TIA spokesperson Rinji Sherpa, the issue was identified while the aircraft was en route, prompting the pilot to make the decision to turn back. The plane landed safely in Kathmandu at 7:24 AM.
Preliminary assessments indicate the issue was related to the aircraft’s engine, and a technical team is currently working on repairs. The aircraft was carrying 19 people, including crew members and passengers, all of whom are safe and unharmed, airport authorities confirmed.
The swift response by the flight crew and airport coordination ensured the safe return and prevention of any incident, highlighting the effectiveness of current aviation safety protocols.
