Nepal resumes rescue helicopter flights to Mount Everest amid local protests
Feb 17, 2025, 06:57 IST
Nepali airlines have resumed helicopter rescue operations in the Everest region after weeks of suspension due to protests by local communities. The flights, crucial for emergency rescues in the mountainous region, were halted after locals blocked landing sites, citing concerns over environmental impact and lost income from trekkers.
Nepal has resumed rescue helicopter flights to the Mount Everest region after a suspension prompted by local protests. In early January, the Airlines Operators Association of Nepal grounded all flights, citing disruptions caused by local youths who blocked landing sites with flags and warned pilots of forced returns on foot.
The protests were driven by concerns over environmental impact and the loss of income from trekkers who opt for helicopter services instead of traditional trekking routes. Helicopters, while essential for emergency rescues, have been used by mountaineering teams and tourists to bypass the challenging trek to Everest Base Camp, depriving local communities of vital revenue.
On January 27, 2025, the Airlines Operators Association of Nepal announced the resumption of rescue flights on humanitarian grounds. However, commercial flights to the region remain suspended as negotiations with local communities continue.
The resumption of rescue operations is crucial for mountaineers and trekkers in the Everest region, where access is often limited due to challenging terrain. The ongoing discussions aim to balance the need for emergency services with the concerns of local communities regarding environmental impact and economic well-being.