Emphasizing that all types of helicopter flights should not be allowed in the Everest region

• KHUMBU —Recently, the issue of whether or not to allow commercial helicopter flights in the Sagarmatha National Park area, which is listed as a World Heritage Site, has drawn attention from the Sagarmatha National Park Buffer Zone Management Committee.

The committee has drawn attention by issuing a press release stating that helicopter operators should not be allowed to use all types of flights for commercial purposes.

The press release stated, “Ignoring the uniqueness and prestige of this World Heritage-listed area, and against the sentiments of the local community dedicated to its conservation, some businesses and individuals have been promoting short-term visits to the Khumbu area through services, selling them without obtaining the necessary permits from the relevant authorities as per prevailing laws. The uncontrolled helicopter flights and landings have caused noise pollution and impacted the overall conservation efforts and livelihoods of the local community. Considering these effects, discussions have been held with various stakeholders to manage such activities. However, by prioritizing commercial flights over all other types, such as transportation services, mountain flights, and rescue operations, the insensitivity of service providers toward their customers has become evident.”

According to committee chairman Chhiring Penzo Sherpa, the law permits flights or landings only for rescue, emergency situations, or research purposes, and only with special permission, which has been neglected.

Sherpa said, “The Buffer Zone Management Committee strongly objects to presentations that suggest allowing helicopter companies to operate freely under the pressure of higher authorities, solely for profit. If sustainable and effective conservation of this area is not achieved, the existence of the local community will be at risk. Therefore, the Buffer Zone Management Committee will continue to work tirelessly for the protection of their existence.”

Additionally, the press release stated, “To manage the uncontrolled helicopter flights, Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality, as the closest government entity to the citizens, has the full support and solidarity of the Buffer Zone Management Committee, representing all consumers in the Sagarmatha National Park Buffer Zone. This information is conveyed to all concerned parties through this press release.”