Shree Airlines Flight Makes Safe Emergency Landing in Nepal Amid Hydraulic Issue, All 82 Passengers Safe

Published on November 1, 2025

A Shree Airlines flight operating from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu with 82 passengers on board experienced a mid-air technical issue that led to an emergency landing at Bhairahawa Airport in Nepal. The aircraft, which had taken off for its scheduled domestic route, reported a hydraulic system malfunction, prompting immediate safety protocols. Airport authorities acted swiftly to ensure the safety of all passengers and crew, and the landing was executed without incident. The airport was temporarily closed as emergency services responded promptly, ensuring that no harm came to anyone on board.

This incident highlights the efficiency of Nepal’s aviation safety standards and the preparedness of its ground response teams. As one of the key domestic airlines, Shree Airlines continues to play an essential role in connecting remote destinations within the country’s rugged terrain. The safe outcome of this emergency further reinforces confidence in Nepal’s travel and tourism infrastructure, which has steadily evolved to handle unexpected operational challenges with professionalism and precision.

A Sudden Turn During a Routine Flight

The flight from Dhangadhi to Kathmandu began as a routine domestic journey early in the day. Passengers were reportedly in calm spirits as the aircraft climbed to cruising altitude. About halfway through the journey, however, the flight crew detected irregularities in the aircraft’s hydraulic pressure indicators. The hydraulic system is vital for controlling the landing gear, brakes, and flight surfaces; hence, any anomaly in its functioning can significantly affect aircraft safety.

Upon recognizing the issue, the pilots promptly alerted air traffic controllers and requested an immediate diversion to the nearest airport with adequate facilities — Bhairahawa, officially known as Gautam Buddha International Airport. The decision was made based on both safety and proximity considerations, ensuring the aircraft could be landed safely before the issue worsened.

Swift Coordination and Emergency Response

Air traffic control at Bhairahawa immediately activated emergency protocols, alerting firefighting units, medical personnel, and ground engineers to prepare for a possible high-risk landing. The airport, one of Nepal’s busiest after Kathmandu, was temporarily closed to all other air traffic to give priority to the Shree Airlines aircraft.

Despite the tense circumstances, communication between the cockpit and ground teams remained clear and professional. The crew maintained composure, reassuring passengers while performing standard emergency checklists. The aircraft made its descent under close monitoring from the control tower, with fire and rescue vehicles positioned along the runway as a precautionary measure.

At approximately the scheduled diversion time, the aircraft touched down smoothly on the runway. Emergency teams swiftly surrounded the plane, inspecting for potential damage or leaks. The pilots managed to bring the aircraft to a controlled stop, and evacuation procedures were executed as a preventive step.

All Passengers and Crew Declared Safe

After the aircraft came to a halt, all 82 individuals — including passengers and crew — were safely evacuated. The process was completed efficiently, with assistance from airport emergency staff. Initial reports confirmed that no injuries or medical emergencies occurred. The passengers were transported to the terminal building, where refreshments and basic amenities were provided as they awaited alternative travel arrangements.

Shree Airlines issued a statement confirming the successful handling of the incident and emphasized its commitment to maintaining the highest safety standards in domestic air travel. Maintenance crews were immediately deployed to assess the aircraft’s condition, focusing on identifying the root cause of the hydraulic malfunction.

Temporary Closure and Prompt Reopening of the Airport

The emergency landing led to a short-term closure of Bhairahawa Airport, a critical hub for both domestic and international travelers in western Nepal. Flights scheduled to arrive and depart were temporarily delayed, allowing emergency responders to manage the situation without interference. Once authorities ensured the aircraft had been safely towed to a designated area and no further hazards were detected, the airport resumed normal operations.

This quick turnaround demonstrated the growing resilience and operational capability of Nepal’s aviation sector, which has steadily improved its crisis management systems to align with international standards.

Nepal’s Expanding Aviation and Tourism Framework

The incident also shed light on Nepal’s ongoing efforts to strengthen its aviation infrastructure to support its thriving tourism industry. With destinations like Kathmandu, Pokhara, and Lumbini drawing travelers from across the globe, domestic airlines such as Shree Airlines serve as vital connectors across the country’s mountainous terrain.

While challenges like unpredictable weather and rugged geography can complicate operations, Nepal’s aviation sector has steadily enhanced its safety training, emergency coordination, and technical preparedness. Bhairahawa’s Gautam Buddha International Airport, where the emergency landing occurred, has recently been upgraded with advanced navigational systems and extended runways, enabling it to handle such critical situations more effectively.

Passenger Safety and Confidence Restored

For passengers aboard the Shree Airlines flight, the experience was undoubtedly unsettling but also a reassuring display of safety readiness. Their calm evacuation and the smooth resolution of the incident underscored the airline’s professionalism and commitment to ensuring that every journey remains secure.

The rapid response of Nepal’s aviation authorities and emergency personnel was widely appreciated by the public and aviation observers. Such events serve as valuable reminders of the importance of rigorous maintenance checks, advanced pilot training, and timely communication among aviation stakeholders.

Impact on Nepal’s Domestic Travel Landscape

Although the incident temporarily disrupted operations, it has been viewed as a testament to how effectively Nepal’s domestic aviation network can respond to emergencies. With the growing number of travelers exploring Nepal’s diverse landscapes, maintaining such readiness is essential for sustaining public trust and promoting continued tourism growth.

Tourism remains a cornerstone of Nepal’s economy, and the reliability of its internal flight network plays a crucial role in connecting remote areas with popular travel hubs. The safe emergency landing thus not only preserved lives but also reaffirmed confidence in the systems supporting the country’s aviation-dependent tourism economy.

A Positive Reflection on Safety Standards

In retrospect, the Shree Airlines emergency landing serves as an example of crisis management done right. It showcased the professionalism of the airline crew, the preparedness of Nepal’s aviation authorities, and the country’s growing capability to handle unexpected challenges within its skies.

For travelers planning to explore Nepal’s majestic landscapes — from the Himalayas to the cultural corridors of Kathmandu — such responses reinforce the assurance that passenger safety remains the highest priority in every operation.

With all passengers safe and normal operations restored, this event will be remembered as a successful example of quick thinking, technical skill, and coordinated teamwork that prevented a potential tragedy in Nepal’s aviation history.