Part 3/9:
The timeline began at 10:30 AM, when Flight 311 took off from Don Muang International Airport in Bangkok, Thailand. The flight was destined for Kathmandu, a journey that typically took about three hours. Onboard were a diverse mix of travelers eager to experience the stunning Himalayas, along with two experienced pilots: Captain Prie Da Sutimai and First Officer Funfat Bunyaye. However, a significant imbalance in the cockpit authority meant that decisions made during the flight ultimately fell on the captain, previously earmarked for rapid advancement within Thai Airways.