What happened
On a scheduled morning flight departing from Kathmandu-Tribhuvan Airport, an aircraft was en route to Lukla-Tenzing-Hillary Airport. During the approach to runway 06, the flight crew encountered heavy fog that significantly reduced visibility. Although the pilot failed to maintain visual contact with the terrain, the approach was continued toward the destination.
While on short final, the aircraft collided with a rock located just below the threshold of runway 06. The impact caused the plane to crash and subsequently burst into flames. The accident resulted in 18 fatalities and left the captain with serious injuries.
Findings
- The crew proceeded with the approach despite the absence of visual ground contact.
- Poor visibility caused by foggy conditions was a primary factor during the approach phase.