A tragic incident occurred Tuesday morning at the Pheriche helipad in Nepal's Solukhumbu district, approximately 250 km from Kathmandu, when two helicopters collided during landing. The accident claimed the life of an Indian national and left a New Zealand citizen of Indian origin injured.
The deceased has been identified as 47-year-old Vasant Kumar Balara Madu, an Indian national. The injured individual is 53-year-old Shailesh Kishan Patel, a New Zealand citizen of Indian origin, who was promptly transported to a hospital for medical treatment.
Collision Details Emerge
According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the rotor blades of the two helicopters, operated by Fishtail Air and Dynasty Air, struck each other as they were approaching the helipad to land. DSP Nabinraj Budhathoki of the Solukhumbu District Police Office confirmed the collision occurred at the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Pheriche helipad.
CCTV footage of the accident has surfaced, showing the two aircraft coming into close proximity just before their rotor blades made contact. Gyanendra Bhul, an information officer with CAAN, acknowledged the collision and stated that officials are actively gathering more information regarding the incident.
Investigation Underway
Authorities have initiated an investigation to determine the exact cause of the collision. Further details regarding the circumstances leading up to the crash are anticipated as the inquiry progresses. The body of the deceased was transported to Lukla by helicopter following the incident.
Small helicopters are frequently utilized across Nepal for a variety of purposes, including transporting tourists and mountaineers, delivering supplies to remote areas, and conducting essential emergency rescue operations in the challenging Himalayan terrain.