TTU: Nepali airlines have resumed Everest rescue flights after a temporary suspension caused by local protests. The flights were halted due to concerns over environmental damage and economic loss for local communities. While rescue operations have restarted, discussions continue to address the ongoing dispute over commercial helicopter services.
Why Everest Rescue Flights Were Suspended
For weeks, local communities blocked landing sites in the Everest region. Protesters argued that frequent helicopter use harmed the environment and reduced income for local businesses. Many trekkers and climbers, instead of using the traditional route, opted for helicopter transport, bypassing villages where they would usually spend money on accommodations, food, and guides.
Helicopters play a crucial role in Nepal’s mountainous terrain, where many areas lack road access. While essential for emergencies, helicopters are also used by tourists and mountaineers to reach Everest Base Camp, avoiding the two-week trek. This shortcut costs around $1,000 per person but deprives local communities of revenue from trekkers who would otherwise spend days in villages.
Negotiations Continue Amid Partial Flight Resumption
On January 27, the Airlines Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) announced that Everest rescue flights had resumed on humanitarian grounds. Commercial helicopter flights, however, remain restricted. The decision followed weeks of protests where locals placed flags on landing sites and warned pilots against landing. Aviation officials and local representatives are now in talks to find a long-term solution.
Impact on Mountaineering and Tourism
The suspension of Everest rescue flights significantly affected mountaineering activities. Over 50,000 people visit the region each year, and during peak trekking seasons, up to 60 helicopter flights operate daily. The lack of emergency evacuation options forced German mountaineer Jost Kobusch to abandon his winter solo ascent of Everest. In a social media post on January 11, he cited the absence of rescue services and earthquake-related risks as reasons for his decision.
The Future of Helicopter Services in Everest
While the restart of rescue flights is a positive step, the larger issue of commercial helicopter operations remains unresolved. Authorities aim to balance aviation and tourism needs with the economic interests of local communities. The outcome of ongoing negotiations will shape future policies for sustainable trekking and climbing in the Everest region.
