Accident Sequence
During the final approach to Jomsom Airport runway 06, the crew extended the landing gear after noticing a technical issue. On short final, the captain decided to abort the landing and execute a go-around, with a plan to divert to Pokhara. The captain then performed a sharp U-turn to the left at a speed of 73 knots. During this turn, the left wing struck a rocky hill located 270 meters above the threshold of runway 24. The aircraft subsequently stalled and crashed on the slope of the hill, resulting in its destruction by impact forces.
Injuries and Damage
The stewardess and five passengers sustained serious injuries. All 15 other occupants, including both pilots, were killed. The aircraft was destroyed.
Probable Cause
According to the official investigation, the probable cause was the captain's decision to make a sharp turn to the left at 73 knots without accounting for the turn radial and the rising terrain. This action triggered a continuous stall warning during the final 12 seconds of flight. The left wing then struck a rock, leading to the crash. The maneuver was contrary to all published procedures. The report also noted that the commander was a senior flight instructor employed by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.