Pokhara-Jomsom Flights Suspended for Three Months as Monsoon Weather Disrupts Air Connectivity

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Pokhara-Jomsom Flights Suspended for Three Months as Monsoon Weather Disrupts Air Connectivity

Pokhara-Jomsom Flights Suspended for Three Months as Monsoon Weather Disrupts Air Connectivity

Ecosphere News Correspondent 2026-07-14 10:54:56

Pokhara, July 14 - Regular passenger flights between Pokhara and Jomsom have been suspended for approximately three months due to adverse monsoon weather and poor visibility, affecting one of Nepal's most important mountain air routes serving the Mustang region. The seasonal suspension, which typically extends from the third week of Jestha until the first week of Bhadra, has been implemented by private carriers Tara Air and Summit Air.
According to Deepak Pokharel, Chief of Jomsom Airport, persistent rainfall and reduced visibility have made regular flight operations unsafe during the monsoon season. While scheduled passenger services have been halted, emergency charter flights and helicopter operations will continue as required, ensuring access for urgent travel and essential services. Airlines are expected to resume regular operations in the first week of Bhadra, subject to weather conditions.
The Pokhara-Jomsom route is particularly vulnerable to monsoon weather due to strong afternoon winds and rapidly changing visibility in the Kali Gandaki Gorge. As a result, flights normally operate only during the early morning hours, typically until around 11:00 a.m., even in the peak tourist season.
Despite the suspension of scheduled flights, religious pilgrims continue to visit the revered Muktinath Temple and Damodarkunda by helicopter, with security personnel accompanying such flights as part of established safety protocols.
Tourism stakeholders note that air passenger numbers have declined in recent years as improved road connectivity has made overland travel to Mustang more accessible. Nevertheless, aviation remains a vital transport link for pilgrims, tourists with limited travel time, emergency services, and logistical operations in the mountainous district.
The temporary suspension highlights the continuing challenges Nepal's mountain aviation sector faces during the monsoon, where weather conditions remain the primary factor influencing flight safety and operational reliability.
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