What happened
During an approach to Lukla Airport, the flight crew encountered worsening weather conditions. In response to the deteriorating visibility, the captain executed a go-around and transitioned into a holding pattern. After a brief period, the pilot determined that the weather had improved sufficiently to attempt a second landing approach.
As the aircraft reached the short final phase of the second approach, it encountered a layer of low-altitude clouds. During this descent, the aircraft lost proper alignment with the runway. The aircraft subsequently struck the runway surface and bounced, causing it to lose control. The aircraft veered off the paved surface and came to a stop in a nearby ravine. The impact resulted in 17 injuries and the total destruction of the aircraft.
Findings
- The aircraft entered a layer of low clouds during the final approach.
- Improper alignment with the runway during the landing phase led to the initial contact with the runway surface.