21 Aug 2018 | 10:04 AM UTC
Nepal: Authorities suspend private helicopter operator after death
Nepalese authorities temporarily suspend license of a private helicopter company August 20 following the death of a foreign customer in Hilsa region
Event
On August 20, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal temporarily suspended the operating license of a private helicopter firm. The suspension came after a foreign customer was struck and killed by the rear blade of a helicopter at a remote helipad in the Hilsa region.
Context
In recent years, several tour operators have stopped using certain airlines due to safety concerns, As a reminder, all Nepalese carriers have been refused permission to operate air services to the European Union due to safety concerns. On March 12, 2018, a US Bangla Airlines plane with 71 on board crashed while landing at Kathmandu International Airport (KTM), killing 51.
Advice
As a precautionary measure, individuals present in Nepal are advised to check weather conditions and their airlines' safety record before traveling by plane. Report to authorities any suspicious signs of negligence or danger and refuse to board helicopters or planes if seemingly unsafe. .