According to Buddhi Sagar Lamichhane, the joint secretary of the Nepalese civil aviation ministry, the propellers of both engines on the turboprop transitioned to the feather position prior to the crash.
The Nepalese investigation into the crash has received a boost, with analytical support from Singapore's transport safety investigation bureau. The examination of the flight data and cockpit voice recorders has revealed that both engine propellers feathered on the base leg, according to the inquiry.
The cause of the feathering, which is typically done to minimize the drag in case of engine failure, has not been determined yet. The investigative commission has stated that it will be examining both the technical and human factors in order to fully comprehend the circumstances surrounding the crash.
The inquiry into the crash of the Yeti Airlines ATR 72-500 is receiving support from a number of sources, including Pratt & Whitney Canada, the manufacturer of the aircraft's engine. Representatives from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency, as well as investigators from France and Canada, are also lending their assistance.
The inquiry has stated that the analysis of the data and the preparation of the final report will require time. Meanwhile, the Nepalese civil aviation regulator is taking provisional safety measures as the investigation continues.
These measures comprise establishing stabilized approach height requirements for aircraft operating at short take-off and landing airports. Additionally, starting from this summer, aircraft other than short take-off types, such as Viking Air Twin Otters and Let L-410s, will face instrument flight rules restrictions at controlled airports.
Furthermore, the regulator is revising flight-duty time limitations to minimize the risk of fatigue. Rules surrounding pilot proficiency checks are also being amended.
