CAAN vetoes Sagarmatha National Park’s decision to suspend helicopter flights in Khumbu

KHUMBU – An intensifying dispute between Sagarmatha National Park, home to Mount Everest, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal has arisen regarding restrictions on helicopter sightseeing tours of the world’s tallest peak. Subsequent to the park authorities’ issuance of directives restricting choppers from flying over the national park during Everest sightseeing tours effective January 1, the aviation regulator announced on Friday that the park lacks the requisite legal authority to enforce such a ban.

The aviation regulator has asked helicopter operators to continue flight services unless advised to do otherwise. On Friday, CAAN issued a statement asserting that the decision to ban commercial helicopter flights and landings in the park lacked a valid basis. Consequently, CAAN directed helicopter companies and other stakeholders to operate regular commercial flights in the area without interruption until a definitive decision is made.

The President of the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA), Mr. Nima Nuru Sherpa, expressed astonishment at Sagarmatha National Park’s decision, which would have far-reaching consequences for Khumbu. He underscored the importance of avoiding a conflict between the civil aviation body and Sagarmatha National Park, as it would impede Nepal’s tourism growth. “National parks are essential for Nepal’s tourism revenue, and conservation should be a primary concern. However, the park should not impose restrictions without careful consideration, taking into account the significant investments made by helicopter operators in promoting Nepal’s high-end tourism.” He emphasized the vital functions of helicopters, including sightseeing tours, rescue operations, and cargo transport in rugged terrain.

CAAN stated that the legal responsibility to regulate and manage Nepali airspace lies solely with it as per the provisions of the Civil Aviation Act, 2015 BS and the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal Act, 2053 BS and the regulations under these laws.

The statement read, “The National Parks and Wildlife Conservation Act, 2029 BS and the Himalayan National Park Regulations, 2036 BS, among other laws, state that the said body does not have the authority to restrict airspace above any national parks or wildlife reservations.”

After excessive helicopter activity began in the Sagarmatha National Park area, affecting the overall tourism and wildlife, the park, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, the Buffer Zone Management Committee and local stakeholders decided to ban commercial helicopter flights and landings in the area from January 1.

In accordance with the decision, the park office had written a letter to 11 helicopter companies including Air Dynasty, Prabhu Helicopter, Kailash Helicopter, Mountain Helicopter, Altitude Air, Fishtail Air, Shree Airlines, Simrik Air, Heli Everest and Manang Air, directing them to stop the flights in the national park area.