Regular commercial flights on the Pokhara–Jomsom sector have been suspended for the winter season after a significant decline in tourist arrivals to Mustang, coupled with adverse weather conditions and seasonal travel slowdown.
Private airline operators Summit Air and Tara Air have temporarily halted their scheduled services on this route, citing low passenger demand, harsh winter weather, and safety concerns. The suspension is expected to last for up to three months.
According to Dipak Pokhrel, Chief of the Civil Aviation Office, Jomsom, regular flights have been stopped due to unfavorable flying conditions, potential snowfall, and reduced tourist movement during the off-season.
Charter and Emergency Helicopter Services to Continue
Despite the suspension of regular commercial flights, chartered aircraft services and emergency helicopter operations will remain operational to meet essential travel and rescue requirements.
“Although scheduled flights have been halted, charter flights and emergency heli services will continue to operate as per need,” Pokhrel confirmed.
Airlines Announce Suspension Periods
Tara Air’s Mustang Station In-Charge, Suchan Lalchan, stated that the airline has suspended its Pokhara–Jomsom regular flights from December 24 until March 1. Meanwhile, Summit Air has also confirmed the suspension of its scheduled services for a two-month period.
Winter Winds and Snowfall Disrupt Air Connectivity
During the winter season, Mustang experiences strong winds, snowfall, and rapidly changing weather conditions, which frequently disrupt flight operations. These harsh climatic factors significantly reduce flight safety margins, making regular air operations challenging.
Road Connectivity Reduces Air Passenger Numbers
In recent years, the improvement of the Beni–Jomsom–Korala road corridor has also contributed to the gradual decline in air passengers. Easier road access has encouraged travelers to opt for overland journeys, further reducing demand for air services on the route.
With winter conditions prevailing and tourist arrivals slowing, airlines have chosen to temporarily suspend operations while continuing to monitor demand and weather conditions for future resumption.
