Sagarmatha National Park has lifted its ban on commercial helicopter flights within the park and its buffer zone, originally imposed on January 1.
The ban , enforced in collaboration with Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality, the Sagarmatha National Park Buffer Zone Management Committee, and other local stakeholders, aimed to address noise pollution, disruptions to wildlife, and adverse effects on local livelihoods caused by “uncontrolled” helicopter operations.
However, the decision faced strong opposition from helicopter operators and was contested by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), which argued that air travel regulations fall under its jurisdiction and cannot be enforced without a government directive.
On January 6, the park office issued a circular requesting helicopter operators to conduct flights responsibly, taking into account the protection of the region's forests, wildlife, and biodiversity. Operators were reminded to comply with regulations, pay required fees, and obtain permissions for landings, take-offs, and hovering in the park area.
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Senior Conservation Officer Sushma Rana previously raised concerns about unauthorized helicopter landings. “During the tourist season, up to 100 helicopter flights occur daily, creating noise pollution that drives wildlife away from their habitats,” Rana had told New Business Age.
The decision to reverse the ban comes a day after the Airlines Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) suspended helicopter services and threatened to halt all flights to the Everest region, citing unresolved safety concerns and ongoing tensions with local stakeholders. The association also warned of a potential suspension of STOL (Short Take-Off and Landing) flights if security issues were not resolved.
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In a January 5 notice, AOAN claimed negotiations with local stakeholders had failed and accused local groups of obstructing helipads and making threatening remarks against crew members.
Mingmachhiri Sherpa, Chairman of Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality, had defended the ban, saying it was intended to create job opportunities for trekking guides and porters. Sherpa could not be reached for comment on the latest developments despite repeated attempts.
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The rural municipality had previously announced that only rescue and cargo flights compliant with park regulations would be allowed beyond Lukla starting January 1. Trekking agencies were advised not to sell packages including helicopter services.
Established in 1976, Sagarmatha National Park spans 1,148 square kilometers and is home to endangered species like the snow leopard and red panda, along with Mount Everest. Declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1979, the park's buffer zone, established in 2002, adds an additional 275 square kilometers, encompassing various settlements.
The Everest region remains a crucial revenue generator for Nepal’s tourism industry, with helicopter services playing an essential role in supporting trekkers, climbers, and emergency rescues. However, the recent tensions have highlighted the delicate balance between local stakeholders and aviation operators.
