Helicopter Plunges into Himalayan Forest
A helicopter operated by Dynasty Air tragically crashed into a dense Himalayan forest within Shivapuri National Park in Nuwakot district, located approximately 57 kilometers (35 miles) from Kathmandu, Nepal’s capital. The incident occurred shortly after takeoff on Wednesday, resulting in the loss of all five individuals on board.
Victims Identified: Chinese Nationals and Nepali Pilot
Authorities have confirmed that the four passengers on the ill-fated helicopter were Chinese nationals, comprising three men and one woman. The pilot, a Nepali male, also perished in the crash. Local residents, observing a fire emanating from the forest, promptly alerted authorities, leading to the discovery of the wreckage.
Communication Lost Minutes After Takeoff
The helicopter, en route to Rasuwa district from Kathmandu on Wednesday afternoon, vanished from air traffic control’s radar a mere three minutes after takeoff, according to a statement from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. The sudden loss of communication and subsequent crash have raised concerns about aviation safety in the region.
Tragic History of Air Accidents in Nepal
This devastating incident marks the latest in a series of more than a dozen air crashes that have occurred in the mountainous region since 2000. The rugged terrain and unpredictable weather conditions in Nepal pose significant challenges for aviation, contributing to the country’s unfortunate history of air accidents. Over 360 lives have been lost in plane or helicopter crashes in Nepal over the past 24 years.
Summary
A helicopter crashed shortly after takeoff near Kathmandu, Nepal, killing all five people on board. The victims included four Chinese nationals and a Nepali pilot. The helicopter lost contact with air traffic control three minutes after takeoff and crashed into a Himalayan forest. This incident is the latest in a series of air crashes in Nepal, where mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather pose challenges for aviation.
Key Learning Points
| Point | Description |
|---|---|
| Location of Crash | Shivapuri National Park, Nuwakot district, Nepal |
| Victims | Four Chinese nationals (three men, one woman) and one Nepali pilot |
| Cause of Crash | Unknown, investigation underway |
| History of Air Accidents in Nepal | More than a dozen crashes since 2000, over 360 fatalities |
| Challenges for Aviation in Nepal | Mountainous terrain, unpredictable weather |
Soumya Smruti Sahoo is a seasoned journalist with extensive experience in both international and Indian news writing. With a sharp analytical mind and a dedication to uncovering the truth, Soumya has built a reputation for delivering in-depth, well-researched articles that provide readers with a clear understanding of complex global and domestic issues. Her work reflects a deep commitment to journalistic integrity, making her a trusted source for accurate and insightful news coverage.
