KATHMANDU, JULY 27 A U.S.-manufactured heavy-lift drone has successfully completed a series of high-altitude test flights on Ama Dablam, demonstrating its potential to improve climber safety, reduce the physical burden on Sherpas and enhance expedition logistics in Nepal's Himalayas. The demonstration, conducted in June by the U.S. Embassy in Nepal and Seven Summit Treks in partnership with The Coca-Cola Foundation, tested the Freefly Alta X Gen2 drone between Ama Dablam Base Camp (4,600 metres) and Yak Camp (about 5,050 metres). Operated by Nepali drone pilots, the drone transported oxygen cylinders and expedition equipment over a 1.6-kilometre stretch of steep mountain terrain. Despite strong winds and rapidly changing weather conditions, it completed all scheduled flights successfully, according to a press release issued on Monday.

The U.S. Embassy said the demonstration highlighted the reliability and precision of American drone technology in one of the world's most challenging operating environments. Chargé d'Affaires Scott Urbom said the collaboration reflects the United States' long-standing spirit of innovation and exploration. Beyond mountaineering, the technology could support a range of applications in Nepal, including search and rescue operations, mountain clean-up campaigns, disaster response, emergency deliveries to remote communities and high-altitude logistics. The embassy said the initiative combines American technology with Nepal's expertise in mountaineering and aviation, offering a safer and more efficient approach to operations in remote and high-altitude regions.