Pokhara, 19 March| An Air Dynasty helicopter, registration 9N-AFQ, crashed in Khotang on Wednesday at 11:51 a.m. while attempting to land at Balabesi, Ward No. 2, Kapilasgadhi Rural Municipality. The helicopter had departed from Kathmandu carrying five passengers, including Nagamani Rai and members of his family.
According to Ward Chairman Milan Kumar Rai, one passenger, Kaji Bahadur Rai, sustained minor injuries to his right leg and was evacuated to Kathmandu via another company helicopter. The helicopter was transporting the body of Nagamani Rai’s late wife, Manmachhi Rai, from the UK for her final rites in Nepal. The crash occurred during landing when the helicopter tipped over, but all other passengers and crew members remained safe.
Nepal Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) confirmed the incident, noting that the helicopter overturned during landing. The passenger manifest included Nagamani Rai, his son Balkumar Rai, daughter Samjhana Rai, relative Laxmi Rai, and the injured Kaji Bahadur Rai. Authorities have clarified that the body will reach Khotang the following day due to the accident.
Experts highlight that helicopter operations in Nepal’s mountainous regions carry a high risk of accidents, emphasizing the need for strict safety protocols. The crash underscores the challenges of safe aviation in remote areas and the importance of careful flight management. Rescue operations and local administration responded immediately to ensure passenger safety and secure the site.
