One Killed as Two Helicopters Collide Near Mount Everest

An Indian national was killed and a New Zealander injured after two helicopters collided as they prepared to land in Nepal's Mount Everest region on Tuesday, authorities said. The helicopters were operated by Fishtail Air and Dynasty Air.

The incident occurred during peak trekking season, when helicopters regularly ferry hikers and climbers through the region's high-altitude valleys. Mountain flying in Nepal is among the world's most demanding, with thin air, fast-changing weather and short, sloping landing strips.

Nepal's aviation safety record in mountain areas has drawn repeated scrutiny, and previous crashes have prompted calls for stricter oversight of helicopter operations. Authorities said an investigation into Tuesday's collision was under way.

The injured New Zealander was taken for medical treatment, and officials did not immediately release further details about the victims. The companies involved had not issued detailed public statements by Tuesday morning.

Helicopter traffic in the Everest region surges each autumn as trekkers head to base camp and beyond. Regulators have in recent years tightened rules on mountain flights, but operators and safety experts continue to debate whether the measures go far enough.