Air crashes are traumatic experiences that are often all too unpredictable to avoid, leaving victims and their families with a lifetime of pain. For many, the physical ramifications of an air crash can be easy to identify: broken bones and disfigurement, for example. But for many survivors, the true disorientation and suffering begin long after the physical wounds have healed. Psychological distress and trauma are common side effects of air crashes and those inflicted upon, and near, the victims.
The news of the tragic plane crash in Nepal on Sunday has sent shockwaves across the world. A commercial flight carrying 72 passengers was on its way from Kathmandu to Pokhara when it crashed. According to the news, the aircraft was fifteen years old, raising questions about the safety of air travel in Nepal. So far, it is reported that at least 40 people have lost their lives in the crash, with the death toll likely to rise in the coming days. This is a particularly devastating accident, as it highlights the fragile nature of aviation safety despite technological developments over the years.
It is crucial in these times of grief to understand that an accident of this magnitude could very well have been prevented. The incident has prompted many to question the state of aviation safety in Nepal and its neighboring countries. A poor air safety record can not only result in the untimely loss of precious lives but also damage public confidence in the safety of air travel.