What happened
On March 12, 2018, US Bangla Airlines flight BS211, a Bombardier DHC8-402 registered S2-AGU, departed Dhaka, Bangladesh, for Kathmandu, Nepal. During the pre-departure phase, the pilot experienced significant stress and agitation while communicating with ground control regarding mandatory ADC documentation. After takeoff, the pilot engaged in non-essential radio communications with airline operations while the aircraft was climbing.
As the flight approached Kathmandu, the crew received instructions from Kathmandu Approach to descend and hold over the GURAS waypoint. Due to distractions from unnecessary conversation, the crew failed to cancel the hold in the Flight Management System. While attempting to intercept the approach course, the aircraft deviated significantly to the right of the final approach path.
At Kathmandu Tower, controllers noted the aircraft was proceeding toward Runway 20 despite being cleared for Runway 02. The pilot performed multiple right-hand orbits, failing to follow instructions to join the downwind leg. Despite being cleared to land, the aircraft approached the threshold of Runway 20 at an unsafe angle and altitude, prompting the controller to cancel the landing clearance. The aircraft performed a low-altitude maneuver that passed dangerously close to the control tower.
At 08:34 UTC, the aircraft touched down 1,700 meters past the threshold of Runway 20 at an angle of 25 degrees to the runway axis. The aircraft veered southeast, crossed the perimeter fence, and came to a stop. A fire broke out six seconds after touchdown, consuming much of the airframe. The accident resulted in 49 fatalities (including all 4 crew members) and numerous injuries.
Findings
- The crew failed to cancel a programmed hold in the FMS due to being distracted by non-essential communications.
- The pilot's flight path was characterized by significant lateral deviations and unstable approach parameters.
- The pilot's high levels of emotional stress and engagement in unnecessary conversation contributed to the loss of situational awareness and failure to follow ATC instructions.