Kathmandu: An Indian tourist was killed, and two people were injured after two helicopters collided while attempting to land near Mount Everest in Nepal on Tuesday, officials said.
The accident occurred around 8:11 am in Pheriche, Solukhumbu district, about 4200 metres above sea level. Fishtail Air and Dynasty Air operated the helicopters.
The deceased was identified as a 47 year old Indian tourist. A New Zealand citizen of indian origin was injured and airlifted for treatment, while a Nepali pilot also sustained injuries.
Reuters reported that Fishtail Air's helicopter was carrying passengers rescued from the Everest region, while the Dynasty Air helicopter was carrying cargo.
The cause of the collision has not yet been established. Nepalese authorities are investigating the incident.
Helicopters are widely used in Nepal's Everest region to transport trekkers and climbers and to evacuate people from the high altitude terrain, where there are no roads. The accident occurred during Nepal's peak autumn trekking season.
