After a 17-day suspension due to adverse weather, flights have resumed at Phaplu Airport in Solukhumbu, a prominent tourist district. The airport had remained non-operational since Jestha 26, as persistent rain and dense fog had disrupted aviation activities, according to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), Phaplu Office.
Senior officer Ayush Thapa stated that on Wednesday, a Nepal Airlines Twin Otter successfully flew from Kathmandu to Phaplu and returned, marking the resumption of operations. The flight brought 12 passengers to Phaplu and flew back with 10 passengers to Kathmandu.
Due to the frequently changing weather in the region, flight suspensions are common. Continuous rainfall and heavy fog since the end of Jestha had grounded flights for over two weeks.
Health Emergencies in Crisis During Suspension
Locals like Padam Shrestha reported that transporting critically ill or disabled patients to Kathmandu became extremely difficult during the suspension. Health workers noted that the inability to airlift patients placed lives at serious risk. In several cases, patients referred to Kathmandu had to endure hours-long road travel to Okhaldhunga or Biratnagar, as shared by local Pemba Sherpa.
Phaplu as an Alternative to Lukla for Tourists
While Lukla is the main gateway for trekkers visiting the Everest region, Phaplu serves as an alternative route. Transport entrepreneur Mingmar Sherpa noted that due to frequent flight cancellations in Phaplu, many tourists have been forced to alter their travel plans.
Scheduled Flights Only on Paper
Currently, Nepal Airlines is the only carrier with scheduled flights to Phaplu, operating on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays. However, frequent cancellations due to weather conditions have left passengers stranded. Private airlines have not maintained regular schedules, citing unfavorable weather and low passenger demand.
On average, flights can only be conducted 10 to 12 days per month, according to CAAN Phaplu. Limited aircraft availability, mechanical issues, and a shortage of pilots also contribute to irregular service.
Road Connectivity Also a Challenge
Though the road distance from Phaplu to Kathmandu is approximately 275 kilometers, the route remains inadequate for regular vehicular travel. Landslides along the BP Highway in Sindhuli, Khurkot, and Kavre have made travel hazardous, making access to the federal capital difficult for residents.
