Altitude Air Helicopter Crashes in Lobuche: Pilot Escapes Unhurt

An Altitude Air helicopter crashed near Lobuche in Solukhumbu District on October 29, 2025, while attempting to land on a snow-covered helipad close to the Everest Base Camp one of Nepal’s most challenging aviation zones.

The AS350 B3e helicopter had departed from Lukla Airport at around 7:43 a.m. for a rescue mission in the Everest region. During landing, the aircraft skidded on snow, lost balance, and toppled on its side.

Fortunately, there were no passengers onboard, and pilot Captain Bibek Khadka escaped without injuries. The helicopter sustained minor structural damage, but no fire or explosion occurred.

Preliminary findings indicate that slippery helipad conditions and snowy weather were likely responsible for the accident. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has begun an investigation to determine the exact cause.

Experts note that flying in the Everest region is inherently risky due to thin air, high altitude, unpredictable winds, and icy terrain. Even experienced pilots face difficulties during rescue operations in such conditions.

Though there were no casualties, the Lobuche crash highlights the urgent need to enhance aviation safety, pilot training, and weather assessment for flights operating in Nepal’s mountainous regions.