Is this Heli flight from Namche to Kathmandu safe?
Yes, the Heli Ride from Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu is completely safe. We have licensed pilots with extensive mountain flying experience and knowledge of emergency procedures.
The helicopters we use are brand new, well-maintained, and strong enough to handle the high-altitude terrain of the Everest region. Our helicopter service providers follow all aviation rules and value your safety above all.
Additionally, weather conditions are closely monitored before each flight from Namche to Kathmandu and are only operated when the skies are clear and visibility is excellent.
Is there a risk of altitude sickness during the Helicopter Flight from Namche to Kathmandu?
If you are flying from Namche to Kathmandu, then you would have already completed your high-altitude trekking. As altitude sickness is a condition that arises when you ascend to a higher altitude rapidly, and on this trip, you will be descending, there is very little chance of getting altitude sickness.
Nevertheless, you still should be aware of the symptoms of altitude sickness which are headache, nausea, and fatigue. As you go to a lower elevation, it relieves pressure from the body and normalizes the uptake of oxygen very quickly.
To prevent it, make sure to hydrate yourself and do not consume alcohol. Let your guide know immediately if you feel anything off, as your guide knows how to handle the situation best.
What happens if you get altitude sickness during the Namche to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight?
While the Namche to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight descends to a lower elevation and typically alleviates AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) symptoms, we still have precautions in place. This is how we deal with any health emergencies due to sickness during the flight:
- Immediate Descent Process: The helicopter immediately descends if altitude sickness symptoms are extreme before the flight.
- Oxygen Supply in Stock: All our choppers are equipped with supplemental oxygen cylinders for emergency use.
- Direct Transportation to Kathmandu's Top Hospitals: We can directly transport stricken passengers to Kathmandu's top hospitals on landing.
- Crew and Pilots with Training: Our crew is trained to identify early symptoms of altitude complications and deal effectively with them.
Where is the Landing Point of the Namche to Kathmandu helicopter flight
The helicopter from Namche to Kathmandu lands Lukla and at the domestic terminal of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. Your journey begins at the helipad just above Namche Bazaar village (3,440m), the central hub for helicopter operations in the Everest region.
This helipad is easily accessible from most lodges and guesthouses, and our team will assist you during the transfer to ensure a smooth departure. Once you arrive in Kathmandu, our staff will greet you at TIA, handle the necessary ticket details, and help arrange your onward transportation.
Are there any alternative Landing Options?
Yes, with some planning and customization, landing is possible in other locations like:
- Landing at Private Helipad in Kathmandu (Hotel or Resort Helipad): For visitors staying at deluxe hotels or resorts with a private helipad, a special landing can be arranged on request.
- Landing at Lukla (Optional Transit): If Kathmandu's weather becomes unusually unpredictable for a short duration, the Flight from Namche to Kathmandu may make a stopover for refueling or wait for clearance at Lukla.
What is the Route of the Namche to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight?
The heli flight from Namche to Kathmandu begins with a take-off from the helipad at Namche Bazaar, offering stunning views of the Everest Himalayan range.
Before descending, you get one last aerial look at Mt. Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, Ama Dablam, and the Dudh Koshi Valley. From Namche, the helicopter follows the route of the Dudh Koshi and Bhote Koshi rivers, flying over alpine forests, villages, and terraced hillsides.
As the helicopter leaves the high Himalayas, the scenery shifts to rolling hills and finally into the bustling Kathmandu Valley. The final touchdown provides a stunning aerial view of the city’s temples, green hills, and urban landscape before landing at Tribhuvan International Airport.
What permits are required for the Helicopter Flight from Namche to Kathmandu?
As the flight departs from Namche Bazaar in the Everest region, you will already have acquired the Sagarmatha National Park Permit and Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality Entry Permit on your trek.
No additional permits are required solely for the Namche to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight.
When is the best time for the Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight?
The best time for a Helicopter Flight from Namche to Kathmandu is the pre-monsoon period (March to May) and the post-monsoon/autumn months (September to November). During these months, the air is crystal clear, the visibility is good, and the mountain views are razor-sharp.
Winter months (December to February) are also possible, though the weather could be slightly more unpredictable. Monsoon season (June to August) has dense cloudiness, causing frequent flight cancellations or delays, and hence, we suggest you avoid these seasons.
In any season, we follow aviation weather forecasts regularly to have a safe and scenic helicopter flight to Kathmandu. Early morning times (6:00 AM to 8:00 AM) are most appropriate for a helicopter flight from Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu due to clear weather.
Things you should know about the weather for the Flight from Namche to Kathmandu
Weather is a major factor for the Namche to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight, as Himalayan weather tends to change in minutes. Generally, mornings in the Everest region offer the most favorable flying conditions with clear skies, minimal wind, and excellent visibility.
Normal flight conditions from March to May and September to November are peaceful and ideal. The sky is largely clear, and the whole Everest range is visible from the helicopter.
During winter (December to February), while skies tend to be clear, snowfall or fog induces a flight delay. Monsoon season (June to August) is the worst due to clouds and heavy rain, which requires rescheduling or cancellation.
How to prepare for the Namche to Kathmandu helicopter flight?
As you will be flying from a height of 3,440 meters to 1,400 meters in a duration of less than an hour, preparation includes both logistical and health-related aspects.
Start with pre-bookings of your flight at least one day before. Our Namche Bazaar ground staff will arrange all formalities like weight checks, baggage limitations, and weather updates, so you do not have to worry much about the logistics.
Wear layered clothes suitable for changing weather and don't take alcohol or sleep medication the night before, as that can trigger altitude sickness and motion sickness.
Lastly, please be punctual as flights usually depart early in the morning for the best weather. We will give you the final briefing the night before departure.
How should you dress for the Namche to Kathmandu helicopter flight?
For your helicopter from Namche to Kathmandu, make sure to dress according to the weather. The mornings at Namche are typically chilly, so begin with inner thermal wear to keep you warm.
Wearing a fleece or insulating jacket over this protects you from wind when waiting in line at the helipad or flying high above the Himalayan ridges. For your lower half, long trekking trousers or windproof trousers are the best option.
It's also a good idea to take a warm hat or beanie, particularly in winter, and some sunglasses to protect your eyes from the intense UV rays at high altitude. Early morning departures can be cold, so gloves will keep your hands warm and at ease.
Wear ankle-support hiking shoes or sturdy closed shoes, which are perfect for short distances of walking near the helipad. Lastly, carry a small daypack to carry essentials such as water, travel documents, and snacks.
How much is the weight limit of the Heli flight from Namche to Kathmandu?
Weight limitations are a consideration in the safety of a helicopter flight from Namche to Kathmandu. Our helicopters can normally take a maximum of 5 passengers or a combined weight of up to 500 kg (including luggage), depending on altitude and weather.
Passenger baggage is accommodated at 10–15 kg per person. Large bags or heavy climbing gear must be shipped separately via porters or ground-based carrier service.
Adherence to the helicopter's weight capacity ensures a smooth and safe flight from Namche to Kathmandu; thus, we request that you let us know your weight, along with the baggage, at the time of booking.
Which fleet is used for the Helicopter Flight from Namche to Kathmandu?
We have a modern and well-maintained fleet of helicopters for the Namche to Kathmandu helicopter flight. Our helicopters are carefully chosen for their performance in high-altitude Himalayan conditions and safety in all weather.
Our most frequently used aircraft are:
- Airbus H125 (AS350 B3e): With its high-altitude performance and stability, the Airbus H125 is the safest helicopter for flights in the Everest region.
- Bell 407 GXP: Equipped with a powerful Rolls-Royce engine and a roomy cabin ideal for panoramic flights and group charters.
What is the cost of the Namche to Kathmandu helicopter flight?
Namche to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight cost depends on whether you opt for a private charter or a group joining flight.
The cost for the Group Joining Flight (Per Person) ranges from USD 950 to USD 1250 per person, depending on season and availability. This is ideal for budget trekkers with flexible departure times.
Whereas, a private Charter Flight costs about USD 4000–4500, with the whole helicopter fitting a maximum of 5 people. This is good for families, groups, or people who want flexibility, comfort, and privacy.
Our 2026/2027 Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight includes all airport handling charges, taxes, and fuel costs.
How to book the Namche to Kathmandu helicopter flight Us?
Booking your Namche Bazaar to Kathmandu Helicopter Flight is simple with Himalayan Recreation. We recommend that you book your helicopter flight 24–48 hours in advance, especially during the peak season.
Go to our website, choose the flight and date, provide passport numbers, time preference, number of people, and book your flight. A 30% booking amount is required to confirm the booking, and the remaining amount can be paid before departure. We accept all major credit cards, bank transfers, and online payment gateways.
Cancellation:
Flights booked 24-48 hours in advance cannot be cancelled, and there will not be any refund, but if you book the flight early and your plans change, then we have the following refund policy:
- Free cancellation within 72 hours of flight departure.
- 50% cancellation charge if canceled 48–72 hours before.
- Full refund or reschedule if flight cancellation is due to bad weather.
