KATHMANDU: The Airline Operators Association has warned of potential disruptions in air services to the Solukhumbu region unless complete security assurances are provided by January 22.
Association President Manoj Karki stated that the current ban on helicopter flights in the Khumbu region remains in place. Without assurances of full security by January 22, all air services within Solukhumbu district may face suspension.
The association emphasized its commitment to resolving the issue through dialogue, coordination, and cooperation with Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality and other concerned parties.
It also highlighted the significant financial losses faced by aviation companies due to the ban and warned of potential negative impacts on both national and international sectors.
The association pointed out that tourists visiting Nepal for mountain viewing and trekking may divert to other countries if the ban persists.
This could not only jeopardize the recovering tourism industry after the COVID-19 pandemic but also negatively impact foreign exchange earnings and government revenue.
The association expressed serious concern over a press release issued by Khumbu Pasanglhamu Rural Municipality on January 9, which it claims violates existing laws by imposing restrictions on helicopter operations without legal authority.
The municipality, along with Sagarmatha National Park, local youth groups, and organizations, cited concerns over the environmental and wildlife impacts of helicopter operations in the buffer zone of the national park.
The association clarified that despite written instructions from Nepal’s aviation regulatory body stating that air services should not be halted, talks between association officials and the regulatory body have failed to reach a resolution.
The association noted that obstacles have been created at helipads in the Khumbu region, further complicating the situation.
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