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Turkish Airlines Jet’s Landing-Gear Fire Forces Evacuation at Kathmandu

Authorities have opened an investigation following a short runway shutdown.

Overview

  • The Airbus A330 from Istanbul landed Monday in Kathmandu with flames and thick smoke coming from the right main landing gear.
  • All on board evacuated down slides with no serious injuries reported, and outlets varied on the headcount between 277 and 288 people.
  • Nepal’s aviation authority said the airport’s only runway closed for 98 minutes before flights resumed, creating delays as crews secured the jet.
  • Turkish Airlines said initial checks point to a hydraulic pipe malfunction near the landing gear, while other reports noted overheated brakes or a burst tyre as possible factors.
  • The aircraft remains grounded for inspections in Kathmandu, and officials arranged hotels and alternate flights for affected travelers.