Balabensi crash: Pilot cut engine immediately, survivor says

KATHMANDU: Six people were injured today when an Air Dynasty helicopter crashed in Balabensi, Ward No. 2 of Kepilasgadhi Rural Municipality.

The helicopter, carrying five passengers from Kathmandu, struck a wall while attempting to land at 12:02 PM.

Among the injured is 65-year-old Kaji Bahadur Rai from Lalitpur, who sustained injuries to his right leg and eye, according to Deputy Superintendent of Police Prakash Budhathoki of the District Police Office.

Kaji Bahadur and the pilot, Sabin Thapa, were immediately airlifted to Kathmandu for treatment at 12:35 PM aboard another Air Dynasty helicopter.

Local Ward Chair Milan Rai said Kaji Bahadur was rescued after being trapped under the helicopter.

The helicopter was transporting family members who had come to Balabensi for the funeral of 77-year-old Manlaxmi Rai, a resident of Balabensi who passed away in the UK a month ago.

Those on board included the deceased’s 82-year-old husband Dakmani Rai, son 53-year-old Balkumar Rai, daughter 47-year-old Laxmi Rai, relative 40-year-old Samla Rai, and the injured Kaji Bahadur Rai.

According to relatives, Manlaxmi Rai’s body was set to be transported to Balabensi by vehicle today. Ward Chair Rai confirmed that all family members on board survived the accident. Balkumar Rai, who was seated at the front, said, “It feels like a dream recalling the incident. The engine was immediately switched off by the pilot, which prevented further damage.”

Air Dynasty stated that Captain Sabin Thapa has seven years of flying experience with a total of 1,105 helicopter hours.

The company has not yet disclosed whether the crash was due to technical issues or other causes.

In a statement, Air Dynasty spokesperson Balakrishna Pandit said authorities are coordinating to determine the exact cause of the accident.

Preliminary reports suggest that the helicopter flipped while being moved from a field edge to its center after landing, causing damage to its rotor and tail, which were later collected at the site.

A technical team from Kathmandu reached at the site to investigate the crash and conduct an on-site inspection.