KATHMANDU, JANUARY 15
The Airlines Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) has warned of complete suspension of all flights in Solukhumbu district if helicopter operations are not resumed within a week.
The AOAN has demanded that the ongoing issues surrounding helicopter flights be resolved by January 23.
A team of heli operators led by AOAN President Manoj Karki also met Prime Minister KP Oli demanding immediate intervention from the government.
In a press statement signed by AOAN Chairman Manoj Karki, the association stated that the District Administration Office of Solukhumbu has scheduled a coordination meeting with stakeholders on January 25.
However, it emphasised the need for guarantees on helicopter flight safety and resolution of the issue before January 23, cautioning that failure to do so may compel member airlines to suspend all flights in the district.
At present, shorthaul flights to Lukla and Phaplu are operating regularly, but the AOAN has indicated that these flights will also be suspendedifthesituationremains unresolved.
The suspension stems from a local ban on helicopter flights im- posed by Sagarmatha National Park, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, and other local groups from January 1. These groups have raised concerns over environmental degradation, threats to wildlife and damage to forest ecosystems caused by helicopter operations. Despite directives from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) allowing helicopter operations, negotiations between the AOAN and local authorities have failed. Reports suggest that flags have been placed on helipads to obstruct landings, further intensifying the dispute.
The AOAN has expressed alarm over threats from local groups, which have allegedly warned of action against pilots and crew attempting to land aircraft in the area. Consequently, helicopter flights have been suspended since January 5 due to safety concerns.
On January 6, the Solukhumbu District Administration Office warned that obstructing helicopter operations would lead to legal consequences. Sagarmatha National Park has called on private helicopter companies to operate responsibly, ensuring minimal environmental impact and adhering to regulations by paying required revenues. The park underscored its importance as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant tourist attraction that contributes to Nepal's economy and provides employment opportunities. Helicopter services are essential for medical evacuations, transporting supplies and supporting tourism.
The CAAN had earlier said that aviation regulation falls under federal jurisdiction, as outlined in Nepal's Constitution and related laws. It stressed that local bodies lacktheauthoritytoobstructaviation services.
The AOAN has warned that the ban could have severe repercussions on Nepal's tourism industry, particularly as the country recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic. It has highlighted the risk of international tourists, including mountaineers, choosing alternative destinations, which could result in financial losses for airlines, reduced foreign exchange earnings and a decline in revenue.
Reaffirming its commitment to resolving the issue through dialogue and coordination with Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality and other stakeholders, the association has called for an immediate resolution to create a conducive environment for helicopter operations.
