A rescue helicopter crash-landed near Lobuche Mountain in Nepal’s Khumbu region on October 29, 2025. The pilot, Captain Vivek Khadka of Altitude Air, survived the accident with minor injuries. The incident occurred during a rescue mission amid heavy snowfall and poor visibility.
Crash During Rescue Mission
According to officials, the helicopter took off from Lukla to assist stranded tourists in the Khumbu area. The region, located near Mt. Everest, is known for extreme weather and high-altitude challenges. While approaching Lobuche, the aircraft encountered severe snowfall, forcing Captain Khadka to make an emergency landing.
Despite the impact, he managed to escape safely and was rescued shortly after. Authorities confirmed there were no passengers on board the helicopter at the time of the crash. “The pilot escaped with minor injuries and was rescued swiftly,” officials said.
Investigation Underway
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has begun investigating the cause of the crash. Preliminary findings suggest that bad weather and possible mechanical failure could have played a role. The investigation team will review flight data, maintenance records, and weather reports to determine the exact reason behind the accident.
High-altitude flights in the Khumbu region are considered among the most dangerous in the world. Thin air, strong winds, and sudden snowstorms make rescue operations extremely risky. “These factors contribute to frequent aviation incidents in Nepal,” CAAN stated.
Importance of Rapid Response
Experts say the pilot’s survival highlights the importance of emergency preparedness in mountain operations. The Lobuche helipad, located near Mt. Everest, is a critical spot for rescue missions and supply drops. This incident once again shows the dangers faced by pilots flying in such unpredictable terrain.
Separate Aviation Update
In another aviation development, Air India CEO Campbell Wilson commented on an interim report regarding a recent Air India crash. He said, “The findings did not indicate any engine fault or procedural lapse.”
The two incidents, though unrelated, have drawn attention to the safety challenges faced by pilots across South Asia, especially in difficult terrains and changing weather conditions.
