Regular flights on the Pokhara–Jomsom route have been suspended for nearly three months as private airlines Tara Air and Summit Air temporarily halt their operations. The suspension comes amid the onset of the monsoon season, unfavorable weather conditions, and a decline in tourist arrivals during the off-season period.
According to the Jomsom Civil Aviation Office, both airlines have taken the decision to suspend regular services due to operational challenges and reduced passenger demand on the route. Office Chief Deepak Pokharel confirmed that Tara Air suspended its flights from May 22, while Summit Air stopped operations from June 2.
Seasonal Suspension a Regular Practice
Officials stated that the Pokhara–Jomsom route typically experiences seasonal flight disruptions every year during both winter and monsoon periods. The route, which heavily depends on favorable weather conditions in the Himalayan region, becomes less reliable during adverse climatic phases.
Despite the suspension of flights, tourist movement to Mustang via road through Beni remains active. However, the decline in air passengers has made regular flight operations economically unviable during this season.
Aircraft Deployed to Other Routes
With the suspension in Pokhara–Jomsom flights, smaller aircraft previously operating on this route have been reassigned to other destinations. According to aviation authorities, some aircraft have been deployed for operations in Simikot, Humla.
Officials further noted that the reopening of the Tibetan pilgrimage route to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar for Indian pilgrims has increased demand in that sector, prompting airlines to redirect aircraft capacity accordingly.
Charter and Helicopter Services to Continue
Despite the suspension of regular flights, authorities confirmed that emergency charter flights and helicopter services will continue to operate on the Pokhara–Jomsom route. Chief Pokharel emphasized that essential air services will not be affected and can be arranged based on demand, especially for emergency and special charter operations.
During peak tourist seasons, Tara Air and Summit Air collectively operate around 10 flights daily on this route, transporting an average of over 150 passengers per day from Pokhara to Mustang.
Airline Schedules and Reopening Plans
Summit Air Jomsom Station In-Charge Suman Thakali stated that Summit Air suspended its operations from June 2 and is planning to resume flights from August 15, depending on weather conditions and demand recovery.
Similarly, Tara Air Jomsom Station In-Charge Sujan Lalchan confirmed that Tara Air suspended flights from May 22 and expects to restart services in September. Both airlines cited the monsoon season and low tourist inflow as the primary reasons for the temporary suspension.
Previous Seasonal Suspension History
The Pokhara–Jomsom air route is known for its seasonal operation pattern. In previous years, Tara Air had suspended flights from December 4 to March 1, while Summit Air had halted operations from December 1 to February 1 due to harsh winter conditions and low visibility in the mountainous corridor. Such seasonal adjustments have become a standard operational practice for airlines operating in Nepal’s high-altitude and weather-sensitive routes.
Tourism Impact and Regional Connectivity
The suspension of regular flights is expected to slightly affect air-based tourism flow to Mustang, one of Nepal’s most popular Himalayan destinations. However, tourism officials believe that road access via Beni and continued helicopter services will help maintain visitor movement during the off-season.
Mustang remains a key destination for both domestic and international tourists due to its unique desert-like landscape, cultural heritage, and proximity to the Annapurna region. Authorities emphasized that improved coordination between airlines, tourism stakeholders, and local governments is essential to minimize the impact of seasonal disruptions on tourism and regional connectivity.
The temporary suspension of Pokhara–Jomsom flights reflects the recurring seasonal challenges faced by Himalayan aviation routes in Nepal. While monsoon weather and low passenger demand have forced airlines to pause operations, planned resumption in the coming months is expected to restore regular connectivity to Mustang, a vital hub of Nepal’s tourism economy.
