Early on 28 September 2012, Sita Air Flight 601, a Dornier 228 carrying trekkers to Lukla for the start of the Everest season, crashed moments after taking off from Kathmandu. All 19 people on board, 16 passengers and 3 crew, were killed, including British and Chinese trekkers.
In short: Sita Air Flight 601 to Lukla crashed just after take-off from Kathmandu on 28 September 2012, killing all 19 on board. Reports pointed to a reported bird strike and, in a later investigation, an aircraft loaded beyond its maximum take-off weight.
What happened
Shortly after take-off, the pilot reported a problem and tried to return to the airport. The aircraft came down about 500 m from the runway. Investigators found a loss of thrust during the take-off roll; a later inquiry blamed overloading of passengers and cargo.
Lukla flights today
Flights to Lukla are now more tightly regulated, and in peak seasons many depart from Ramechhap. Pack within the baggage limit, about 15 kg, and choose established airlines. See our Lukla flight guide.