On May 11, 2026, a Turkish Airlines aircraft, flight TK726, traveling from Istanbul to Kathmandu, caught fire upon landing at approximately 6:36 AM local time. The incident occurred when the rear tire ignited as the plane touched down, causing significant alarm among passengers and crew.

Airport officials reported that fire engines were promptly dispatched to the scene, allowing them to control the blaze swiftly. According to SP Rajkumar Silawal from airport security, "All passengers and crew members were safely evacuated through emergency doors," and no injuries were reported.

Witnesses noted seeing flames and smoke emanating from the landing gear, leading to a chaotic but orderly evacuation. The aircraft was carrying 278 passengers, including some United Nations officials, and 11 crew members.

Following the incident, flight operations at Tribhuvan International Airport were suspended for about two hours, as the situation was assessed and managed. Normal operations resumed shortly after 8:30 AM.

An investigation into the cause of the fire is underway, though no official statements have yet been released by either the Turkish Airlines or airport authorities. This incident adds to the history of operational challenges faced by Turkish Airlines at the Kathmandu airport, including previous incidents related to landing procedures in the region.