What happened
During the final approach to runway 06 at Jomsom Airport, the flight crew identified a technical malfunction after deploying the landing gear. In response to this issue, the captain elected to abort the landing and perform a go-around, intending to divert the flight to Pokhara.
While executing a sharp left-hand U-turn at a speed of 73 knots during the short final phase, the aircraft's left wing struck a rocky hill situated 270 meters above the threshold of runway 24. The impact caused the aircraft to stall, leading to a crash on the hillside. The force of the impact resulted in the total destruction of the airframe. Of the passengers and crew on board, 15 fatalities were recorded, including both pilots. Additionally, six individuals—consisting of the flight attendant and five passengers—sustained serious injuries.
Findings
- The crew initiated a diversion to Pokhara following the detection of a technical problem during the approach.
- The aircraft struck terrain during a high-bank maneuver while attempting to reposition for a new approach.