18 killed in plane crash in Nepal

Kathmandu, Oct 8 (UNI) At least 18 people were killed when a small private plane carrying them crashed near Mount Everest in Solukhumbu district this morning, According to Kantipuronline, the captain of the plane was the only one to have a miraculous escape.

The Yeti Airlines plane carrying 19 people--16 passengers and three crew -- crashed at the edge of Lukla airport just before landing.

Twelve Germans and two other foreign nationals were among the dead.

Early reports have suggested that an abrupt deterioration of the weather caused the mishap.

Among the dead are a co-pilot, a airhostess, fourteen foreigners and two Nepali passengers. The injured pilot has been brought to the capital for treatment.

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