Fight erupts between two pilots of Tara Air at Ramechhap airport

Published On: November 3, 2023 11:45 AM NPT By: Republica | @RepublicaNepal

KATHMANDU, Nov 3: A fight erupted between two Tara Air pilots at Ramechhap Airport, raising concerns within the aviation community. The fight occurred at 8 AM on Friday when a TwinOtter aircraft operated by Tara Air landed at Ramechhap Airport from Lukla. The two pilots involved in the dispute were senior captain Santosh Shah and another captain from the same company, Sanjeev Shrestha.

The exact cause of the fight remains undisclosed. Ashok Thapa, the chief of Ramechhap Airport, has initiated an investigation into the incident. He explained, "I am currently probing the incident that unfolded between Captain Santosh Shah, who had piloted the aircraft arriving from Lukla at 8 AM, and Captain Sanjeev Shrestha, who was scheduled to take the aircraft back to Lukla."

According to information from a deputy director at the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, the fight occurred during the duty changeover. As Captain Shah was heading towards the airport building, Captain Shrestha was en route to the aircraft. The Deputy Director revealed that the fight began when Captain Shrestha pushed Captain Shah, who had extended his hand for a handshake. Subsequently, a physical confrontation ensued. Captain Shah reported an injury to his hand and left for treatment in the Manthali market, while Captain Sanjeev Shrestha continued to Lukla with the aircraft. The aircraft and Captain Shrestha have since been grounded at Lukla Airport.

Ramechhap airport chief Khadka stated, "Sanjeev mentioned that it was a personal matter, and said that he can operate the aircraft. Currently, the aircraft and Captain Shrestha remain grounded at Lukla airport, while Captain Shah has been grounded in Ramechhap." In response to the incident, the Authority is considering revoking Captain Shrestha's license.

Tara Airlines' Spokesperson Sudarshan Bertaula remarked that the company is conducting an inquiry into the matter. He clarified, "This fight appears to be rooted in their personal issues and is unrelated to the airline's operations or flights. The company has initiated an internal investigation to ascertain the details of the incident."