Kathmandu, Nepal 11 July 2017: A harrowing incident unfolded in the skies above Nepal as a helicopter carrying six people including pilot went missing while en route to Kathmandu. The chopper, which departed from an undisclosed location was flying over Mount Everest, included five foreign nationals among its passengers. The flight lost contact with the air traffic control tower at approximately 10:00 am local time, raising concerns about the fate of those on board.
The ATC tower could not find helicopter on radar screens at around 10:12 am. Authorities immediately launched an extensive search and rescue operation to locate the missing chopper and its passengers.
By the afternoon, rescue teams made a heartbreaking discovery as they located the wreckage of the helicopter along with passengers. The crash site, situated in a remote area, revealed the grim outcome of the ill-fated flight.
Among the debris, authorities found the bodies of the five foreign nationals who were on board the helicopter. Their identities have not yet been released, pending notification of their families and completion of necessary formalities. The grief-stricken families are being provided with support and assistance during this difficult time.
Preliminary investigations suggest that the helicopter crashed after colliding with a tree. However, the exact circumstances leading up to the accident are still under scrutiny. Aviation experts, together with local authorities, are meticulously examining the wreckage and gathering evidence to determine the cause of the tragic incident.
The aviation community in Nepal is grappling with the aftermath of this unfortunate event. Safety measures and protocols will be subject to a comprehensive review to ensure that such incidents are prevented in the future. Nepal, with its challenging topography and varying weather conditions, necessitates constant vigilance in maintaining aviation safety.
The search and rescue operation has now transitioned into a recovery mission, with efforts focused on retrieving the wreckage and completing a thorough investigation. As the nation mourns the loss of five lives, their families and loved ones are left to grapple with profound grief and sorrow.
The Nepalese authorities express their gratitude to all the search and rescue teams, as well as volunteers, who participated in the operation. Their unwavering commitment and dedication in the face of challenging conditions are commendable.
The Nepal crash serves as a somber reminder of the inherent risks associated with air travel as it has happen in past. The global aviation community stands in solidarity with Nepal during this time of mourning, extending their condolences and offering support.
Updates on the investigation into the cause of the crash will be provided as they become available. As the nation mourns the loss of five precious lives, Nepal’s aviation sector must strive for enhanced safety measures to ensure the well-being of its passengers and crew.