Kathmandu, November 3 (TNA) An Indian national was killed, and three others were injured after two helicopters collided while attempting to land in Nepal’s Everest region on Tuesday morning, authorities said.
The accident took place at around 8:11 a.m. local time at Pheriche in Solukhumbu district’s Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. The helicopters were operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty.
The accident took place at around 8:11 a.m. local time at Pheriche in Solukhumbu district’s Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. The helicopters were operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty.
Victim Identified
Police identified the deceased as 47-year-old Vasanth Kumar Balaramaramadu, an Indian national travelling aboard the Fishtail Air helicopter. The injured included another passenger and the two pilots, according to officials.
One of the injured passengers was identified as Shailesh Krishna Patel, a New Zealand citizen of Indian origin. The injured people were taken for medical treatment, while authorities began examining the circumstances that led to the collision.
Collision During Landing
The two helicopters reportedly collided while landing at a helipad in Pheriche, a settlement used by trekkers and climbers travelling towards Mount Everest Base Camp. Initial reports indicated that the rotor blades of the helicopters struck each other during the landing process.
The accident occurred in a high-altitude area known for challenging weather and flying conditions. Nepalese authorities are expected to conduct a detailed investigation into the incident, including flight coordination, visibility and landing procedures.
Rescue and emergency teams were deployed to the site, while officials worked to secure the crash area and collect information from witnesses. Further details about the condition of the injured and the extent of damage to the helicopters were awaited.