Prior to April 1998, helicopters were the primary mode of passenger transport between Kathmandu and smaller, outlying airports. However, the government has since issued a policy to cease the use of helicopters, maintaining that they do not comply with civil aviation regulations. Since this time, a consortium of operators has been negotiating with relevant authorities in Kathmandu to try and have this decision overturned. Helicopter passage had changed the face of trekking in mountainous regions, as they are better able to adapt to weather changes, and as such are more reliable. Discussions to have this matter resolved have been unsuccessful and the official transport regulation has now implemented twin otter aircraft services to and from the airstrips at Lukla and Hongde.

PLEASE ALSO NOTE: Maximum baggage allowance on flights to Lukla is currently 15kg per person. An additional five kilos may be carried in your daypack on the journey to/from Lukla.