What specific procedural errors led to the Nepal plane crash?

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Specific Procedural Errors Led to Nepal Plane Crash Killing 72

A government-appointed investigation panel determined that the Yeti Airlines crash in Nepal, which resulted in the deaths of 72 individuals, was caused by pilots mistakenly cutting engine power, leading to an aerodynamic stall. The report indicated that a lack of awareness and adherence to standard operating procedures contributed to the fatal error. Specifically, the pilots placed the condition levers, which manage engine power, into the feathering position instead of correctly selecting the flap lever.
Incorrect Use of Condition Levers

The investigation revealed that the pilots inadvertently moved the condition levers to the feathering position. This action effectively idled the engines, preventing them from generating necessary thrust for flight. Aeronautical engineer and panel member Dipak Prasad Bastola explained that this was a deviation from standard operating procedures, leading to a critical loss of power.
Loss of Thrust and Momentum Flight

By placing the condition levers in the feathering position, the engines stopped producing thrust. Despite the loss of power, the ATR 72 aircraft continued to fly for a duration of up to 49 seconds solely on its momentum. This extended period of unpowered flight before impact highlights the severity of the procedural lapse and its immediate consequence on the aircraft's ability to maintain altitude and control.
Aerodynamic Stall as Consequence

The primary consequence of the pilots' procedural error was an aerodynamic stall. An aerodynamic stall occurs when the wings of an aircraft stop generating lift because the critical angle of attack is exceeded, often due to insufficient airspeed or power. In this instance, the disabling of engine thrust directly led to a loss of airspeed and subsequently the stall, making recovery impossible before the aircraft impacted the ground.

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What specific procedural errors led to the Nepal plane crash?

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