A helicopter operated by Altitude Air encountered an accident during landing at Lobuche Helipad in Solukhumbu District on October 29, 2025. According to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), the aircraft skidded while attempting to land on a snow-covered surface.

The helicopter, with registration number 9N-AMS, was being flown by Captain Bibek Khadka, who was the sole person on board at the time. He was rescued safely, and no casualties or injuries have been reported (Kathmandu Post, 2025).

Rescue operations were immediately conducted, and a technical team has been deployed to investigate the cause of the incident.

Incident Summary

According to officials, the incident took place due to weather-related factors common in the high-altitude regions of the Everest area.
Operations have since returned to normal, though authorities have advised all helicopter operators to remain alert to changing weather patterns.

About Lobuche

Lobuche is a small settlement situated at approximately 4,940 meters along the Everest Base Camp trail. It lies between Dughla and Gorak Shep and serves as a vital acclimatization stop for trekkers heading toward Everest Base Camp, Kala Patthar, or Lobuche Peak (Trek Me Nepal, 2024).

It is also the base camp for Lobuche East Peak (6,119 meters), one of the most popular trekking peaks in Nepal. Lobuche is also known for its warm teahouses, the Italian Pyramid Research Center, and the World’s Highest Bakery, making it one of the most beloved high-altitude villages in the Khumbu region.

Helicopter operations in this area are frequent, often used for medical evacuations, logistics, and return flights after summit attempts.

Due to its elevation and proximity to glaciers, helicopter flights are often used for rescue missions, logistical support, and summit evacuations during the climbing season.

Impact on Trekkers and Climbers

The Lobuche area is one of the busiest segments of the Everest trekking route, especially during the spring and autumn seasons. Authorities have confirmed that this incident does not affect trekking or climbing schedules.

However, helicopter companies operating in the Everest region have been asked to conduct safety rechecks on high-altitude helipads.

Trekkers heading toward Everest Base Camp, Lobuche Peak, or Gorak Shep can continue their plans as scheduled.

Traveler Advisory Notes (October 2025)

Lobuche Peak Climbing Context

For climbers attempting Lobuche East Peak, this location serves as the main base camp before the summit push. The mountain stands at 6,119 meters and offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, Nuptse, and Ama Dablam.

Below is a quick overview for trekkers planning the Lobuche Peak Climbing Expedition:

While helicopter flights are commonly used for descent or evacuation, climbers are advised to stay informed about weather changes, especially in the Khumbu region, where rapid temperature shifts are common.

Safety and Operational Status

Following the Lobuche incident, CAAN has begun a standard technical inspection to verify helicopter landing protocols at high-altitude airstrips. According to aviation authorities, no operational suspension has been issued for trekking or climbing-related flights.

This highlights the robustness of Nepal’s mountain aviation system and the quick response capabilities of rescue teams in the region.

Local guides and lodges have also confirmed that trekking activities are running smoothly, with no disruption to Everest Base Camp or Lobuche Peak routes.

Personal Message from Trek Me Nepal

We understand that hearing about a helicopter accident can be concerning for travelers. Please be assured that no passengers were onboard during this incident and the pilot is safe.

The Lobuche helicopter crash serves as a reminder of the challenges of flying in Nepal’s high Himalayan terrain.

At Trek Me Nepal, guest safety always comes first. We remain committed to responsible tourism, transparent communication, and traveler safety at every step of your Himalayan journey.

Following the Lobuche incident, our team has enhanced communication and contingency planning for all Lobuche Peak Climbing and Everest Base Camp clients.

If you are traveling with Trek Me Nepal, we will personally update you with any new information. Your trust and safety are our top priorities.

References

Kathmandu Post. (2025, October 29). Altitude Air helicopter crashes in Solukhumbu; pilot safe. Kathmandu Post Online. Retrieved October 29, 2025.

ShareSansar. (2025, October 29). Altitude Air helicopter skids during landing in Lobuche; pilot escapes unhurt. ShareSansar News. Retrieved October 29, 2025.

The Himalayan Times. (2025, October 29). Pilot rescued after Lobuche helicopter accident. The Himalayan Times Online. Retrieved October 29, 2025.

Laxu Sapkota

General Manager

Laxu Sapkota views travel as his lifelong calling. Born and raised in the heritage-rich Kathmandu Valley, his earliest memories are tied to the breathtaking sights of white mountain peaks in the north... Read More