What happened
While performing a visual flight rules (VFR) approach to Kathmandu-Tribally Airport, the flight crew encountered restricted visibility caused by a low cloud ceiling. During the final approach phase, while maintaining an altitude of approximately 6,000 feet, the aircraft struck a 100-foot radio antenna. This antenna was situated atop a hill and belonged to the Nepalese National Broadcasting Company.
Following the impact with the structure, the aircraft lost control and descended into a crash site located seven kilometers from the threshold of runway 02. There were 15 fatalities among the occupants of the aircraft.
Findings
- The crew was operating under VFR conditions but faced degraded visibility due to low-lying clouds.
- The collision occurred with a fixed radio transmission tower during the final approach.