Mid-Air Horror: Indian Tourist Killed as Two Helicopters Collide in Nepal
An Indian tourist died and others were injured after two helicopters collided mid-air during landing in Nepal's Solukhumbu district.
A routine landing sequence in the scenic heights of Nepal turned into a tragedy on Tuesday morning when a Nepal helicopter collision claimed the life of an Indian tourist and left several others injured. The terrifying incident occurred in the Solukhumbu district, where two aircraft collided in mid-air while attempting to touch down.
The Fatal Impact
The accident took place at approximately 8:11 am in Pheriche, located within Ward 4 of the Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality. According to reports from the District Police Office, helicopters operated by Air Dynasty and Fishtail Air were both maneuvering for landing when the disaster struck.
Officials have confirmed that Vasanth Kumar Balaramaramadu, an Indian national traveling aboard the Fishtail Air helicopter, lost his life due to the injuries sustained in the crash. His body was subsequently moved to a medical facility in Lukla.
Injuries and Rescue Operations
The collision didn't just claim one life; it left others fighting for recovery. Shailesh Krishna Patel, a New Zealand citizen of Indian origin who was also a passenger on the Fishtail Air aircraft, was injured in the impact. In a swift rescue operation, he was airlifted to Mediciti Hospital in Kathmandu via a Prabhu Air helicopter.
The pilots of both colliding aircraft also sustained minor injuries. Both were transported to Kathmandu to receive necessary medical treatment.
Chilling Footage Emerges
Adding to the horror of the event, CCTV footage of the accident has surfaced publicly. The video captures a heart-stopping moment as the two helicopters drift dangerously close to one another. The footage clearly shows the exact moment of impact when the rotor blades of the two aircraft made contact, leading to the crash.
Investigation Underway
Inspector Mausam Tamang provided details regarding the casualties, but some questions remain unanswered. Authorities have stated that the total number of passengers on board both helicopters at the time of the collision has not yet been confirmed.
Law enforcement personnel are currently on the ground gathering evidence and interviewing witnesses to determine the exact cause of the mid-air blunder. Further details are awaited as the investigation continues.