Pokhara, Nepal Flights between Pokhara and Jomsom have been halted for up to three months due to inadequate passenger demand, as well as winter weather, according to reports, where travelers are now set to face harsh challenges due to the suspension of air travel, as Summit Airlines and Tara Airlines, the dominant carriers operating on the sector, have halted their air travel operations.
The airlines cited unpredictable weather patterns that are becoming more challenging for the safe and timely operation of flights during the winter season in the Mustang region. Aviation pilots often find it challenging operating flights because of strong crosswinds and poor visibility, especially when approaching the airport at Jomsom, a well-known airport that sits on a high-altitude runway.
Apart from the concerns about the weather, there has been a considerable decline in the demand for air transportation on this route. This can be attributed to the fact that a new road network has been constructed that connects Pokhara to Mustang, making it a viable means of transportation for passengers. According to reports from the concerned authorities, the road network in combination with the current cost of air transportation has resulted in a decline in the demand for air transportation.
Even though there is the suspension of scheduled flights, there will still be charter and emergency helicopter flights operational. These flights are very important, especially for medical emergencies and rescue missions. Passengers are advised by the relevant authorities to plan their travel well and make use of other means, such as road travel, during the time of suspension.
Stakeholders in the tourism sector in the regions of Jomsom and beyond have raised concerns over the suspension of flights since air transport is a key factor that has been playing a crucial role in enhancing business and tourism during peak periods. Air transport operators have clarified that safety is a key factor taken into consideration before airliners can continue flying operations.
Although this is a temporary setback, it goes to show just how difficult it is to continue flight services in the mountains of Nepal in winter when harsh weather conditions are a definite problem to flight schedules. Well, one is advised to follow the official announcements by Summit Air and Tara Air for any resumptions in flight services and to adjust one’s travel itinerary as necessary. Being at the peak of winter and with snowfall expected in the region, the operational flights on the Pokhara-Jomsom route may continue to remain restricted in the coming months as well, thus again confirming the dependence on road transport and air services for journeying into Mustang.
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