Nepal plane crash that killed 72 caused by pilots mistakenly cutting power, panel finds

A tragic plane crash occurred in Nepal nearly a year ago, resulting in the death of 72 individuals. The crash was attributed to the pilots' inadvertent power cut-off, which led to an aerodynamic stall. This information was disclosed in a report by a government-appointed investigation panel.

The aircraft involved in the accident was an ATR 72, operated by Yeti Airlines, a private company. The crash took place just prior to the plane's landing in the tourist city of Pokhara on January 15. This incident is considered one of the most devastating airplane accidents in Nepal's history over the past three decades. The plane was carrying 72 passengers, including two infants, four crew members, and 15 foreign nationals. Unfortunately, there were no survivors.

Dipak Prasad Bastola, an aeronautical engineer and a member of the investigation panel, stated that the pilots' lack of awareness and failure to adhere to standard operating procedures contributed to the accident. The pilots incorrectly positioned the condition levers, which control power, leading to the engine running idle and not producing thrust. Despite this, the aircraft continued to fly for approximately 49 seconds before crashing. The ATR company, based in France, manufactured the plane, while the engines were produced in Canada by Pratt & Whitney Canada. This incident marked Nepal's deadliest air crash since 1992 when a Pakistan International Airlines Airbus A300 crashed into a hillside during its approach to Kathmandu, killing all 167 passengers on board. Since 2000, nearly 350 individuals have lost their lives in plane or helicopter crashes in Nepal, a country known for its high mountains and unpredictable weather conditions. Due to safety concerns, the European Union has prohibited Nepali airlines from operating in its airspace since 2013.