A foreign national lost their life and another person was injured when two helicopters collided while landing at the Pheriche helipad in Solukhumbu district, Nepal.
The accident occurred around 8:11 AM on November 3 in Ward No. 4 of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, located in the Everest region.
The helicopters, operated by Fishtail Air and Air Dynasty, crashed during their landing attempt.
Police Inspector Mausam Tamang from the Solukhumbu District Police Office confirmed that one foreign tourist was killed and another was injured. The identity of the deceased tourist has not yet been released.
Helicopters collide during landing
Initial reports from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) indicate that the helicopters‘ rotors collided as they approached the landing area.
Officials are investigating the incident and seeking further details.
The cause of the collision remains unknown.
Injured passenger transported to Lukla
The injured passenger was airlifted to Lukla by a Prabhu Air helicopter.
Authorities are still gathering details about the injured individual and the total number of people on board the helicopters.
Search and rescue operations have commenced.
Investigation into the incident
Authorities are collecting information to determine the reasons behind the helicopters‘ collision.
This incident has raised concerns about aviation safety in Nepal’s mountainous areas, where helicopters are vital for transporting tourists, climbers, essential supplies, and conducting emergency evacuations.
Pheriche, a high-altitude settlement in the Khumbu region, serves as a key stop for trekkers and mountaineers heading to Everest Base Camp.
Further information regarding the victims, helicopters, and the cause of the incident is anticipated.