Most dangerous airport nepal

Lukla Airport, officially known as Tenzing-Hillary Airport, is a small airport located in Lukla, a town in the Khumbu region of eastern Nepal. It is famously known as the gateway to Mount Everest because it is the primary starting point for trekkers and climbers heading to Everest Base Camp.

Here are some key facts about Lukla Airport:

1. Location: Situated at an elevation of about 2,845 meters (9,334 feet) above sea level, the airport is nestled in the Himalayas and surrounded by steep mountainous terrain.

2. Reputation: Lukla Airport is often regarded as one of the most dangerous airports in the world. This reputation is due to its short runway, which is only about 527 meters (1,729 feet) long, its steep incline, and the challenging weather conditions in the region. The airport's runway is flanked by a sheer drop on one end and a mountain wall on the other.

3. Weather Conditions: The airport is known for its unpredictable weather, with sudden changes that can impact visibility and wind conditions. Flights are often delayed or canceled due to these factors.

4. Runway: The runway at Lukla is quite unique. It has a 12% gradient, which helps planes to slow down upon landing and gain enough speed when taking off. The sloped runway compensates somewhat for the short length but adds to the complexity of landing and takeoff.

5. Aircraft: Due to the airport's small size and short runway, only small fixed-wing aircraft, such as the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter and Dornier Do 228, typically operate there.

6. Safety: The airport has a limited number of flights, usually early in the morning when the weather is more predictable. Pilots flying into Lukla need special training and experience in short takeoff and landing (STOL) conditions.

Travelers flying into Lukla are usually there to begin trekking in the Everest region or to climb Mount Everest itself. Despite its reputation for being dangerous, Lukla Airport is a critical hub for adventurers heading to the Himalayas.