Aircraft crash during supply mission in Himalaya Mountain Range

No fatalities • Dambusch Pass, Nepal • Takeoff (climb)

A supply aircraft crashed during takeoff from Dambusch Pass while returning to Pokhara, resulting in no injuries but the loss of the airframe.

What happened

During a supply mission intended for the Swiss Dhaulagiri Expedition in the Himalaya Mountain Range, an aircraft experienced a crash during its takeoff roll. The flight was transitioning from the Damboch Pass toward its home base located in Pokhara. Upon impact, the propeller and the right wing of the aircraft sustained significant damage.

Although the two crew members escaped the accident without any injuries, the aircraft could not be recovered immediately and was left at the crash site. The wreckage is situated at an altitude of approximately 5,200 meters. In 1998, a group from Switzerland traveled back to the location to retrieve the plane for repatriation to Switzerland.

Findings

Preliminary assessments suggest that the accident was triggered by a technical issue occurring during the takeoff phase.

Probable cause

A mechanical failure is believed to have caused the crash during takeoff.

Frequently asked questions

What happened in the 1960-05-05 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident near Dambusch Pass, Nepal?

A supply aircraft crashed during takeoff from Dambusch Pass while returning to Pokhara, resulting in no injuries but the loss of the airframe.

Were there any fatalities in the 1960-05-05 Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter) accident?

No fatalities were recorded in this accident.

What aircraft was involved and where did it happen?

The accident on 1960-05-05 involved a Pilatus PC-6 (Porter & Turbo Porter), registration HB-FAN, operated by Swiss Dhaulagiri Expedition, at Dambusch Pass, Nepal.

What was the probable cause of the accident?

A mechanical failure is believed to have caused the crash during takeoff.

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