Starting this past Sunday, flights between Manthali in Ramechhap district and Lukla have commenced. Tara Air, Summit Air, and Sita Air are the three airline companies facilitating this route exclusively for foreign tourists.

These carriers have initiated services from Manthali to Lukla due to the heightened air traffic congestion experienced at Kathmandu Airport during peak tourist seasons. Presently, tourists are transported from Kathmandu to Manthali by bus and then continue their journey to Lukla by plane.

Manthali Airport holds a significant advantage due to its proximity to Kathmandu and is the sole airport in the eastern region providing refueling facilities and serving as an emergency landing site for aircraft. As the tourist season gains momentum this year, it is anticipated that these airlines will operate a maximum number of flights, contingent on favorable weather conditions.