A small plane carrying 21 people has disappeared while flying over Nepal Wednesday.

Officials say the Twin Otter aircraft carried 18 passengers, including two foreigners, and a crew of three on what is normally an 18 minute flight.

The twin engine aircraft lost contact with ground controllers after taking off from Pokhara, a major tourist center located about 200 kilometers west of Kathmandu, to Jomsom, a popular spot for mountain hikers. 

An official at the Pokhara airport says helicopters have been deployed on a search and rescue mission. 

The aircraft was operated by domestic carrier Tara Air. 
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