Tenzing Hillary Airport

Tenzing Hillary Airport, also known as Lukla Airport (IATA: LUA, ICAO: VNLK), is widely regarded as one of the most thrilling airports in the world. Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas at 9,334 feet (2,845 meters), it serves as the main gateway to the Everest region, including Everest Base Camp, Namche Bazaar, and Gokyo Lakes.

This guide covers everything you need to know about Tenzing Hillary Airport, including its location, airport codes, flight access, safety, facilities, and why it’s essential for high-altitude trekking in Nepal.

Tenzing Hillary Airport is located in Lukla, a small Sherpa village in the Solukhumbu district of eastern Nepal. The airport is named in honor of Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay, the first climbers to summit Mount Everest.

Most trekkers flying into Lukla from Kathmandu, Ramechhap, or Manthali do so to begin the Everest Base Camp Trek. With no road access, this airport is the lifeline to the Khumbu region, handling thousands of trekkers every season.

• IATA Code: LUA

• ICAO Code: VNLK

• Location: Lukla, Solukhumbu District, Province No. 1, Nepal

• Altitude: 9,334 ft (2,845 m)

• Runway Length: 527 m (1,729 ft)

• Runway Orientation: 06/24 – sloped downhill toward the valley

• Contact: Civil Aviation Office, Lukla

• Short runway on a cliffside, making landings and takeoffs a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

• Surrounded by majestic Himalayan peaks, including views of Ama Dablam and Kongde Ri.

• Has a sloped runway for natural braking support, vital due to limited runway length.

• The airport operates only in daylight and under VFR (Visual Flight Rules) due to challenging terrain and rapidly changing weather.

• Main Route: Ramechhap (Manthali) to Lukla – ~20–25 minutes

• Seasonal Flights: Kathmandu to Lukla (spring/autumn only, weather permitting)

• Airlines: Tara Air, Summit Air, Sita Air

⚠️ Travel Tip: Flights are frequently delayed or canceled due to weather. Always build buffer days into your itinerary.

Facilities are basic but functional, designed to support trekking groups:

• One small terminal building

• Manual check-in and bag handling

• No automated announcements – keep your ears open

• A coffee shop and small guesthouse nearby

• Limited phone signal and no public Wi-Fi

Despite its humble size, the airport is well-organized and operates with high precision.

The best time to fly to Tenzing Hillary Airport is during:

• Pre-monsoon (March–May) – stable conditions, blooming rhododendrons

• Post-monsoon (September–November) – clear skies and crisp Himalayan views

Avoid flying during June–August (monsoon) and December–February (winter fog/snow) due to poor visibility and high cancellation risk.

1. What is Tenzing Hillary Airport's IATA code?
Tenzing Hillary Airport’s IATA code is LUA and the ICAO code is VNLK.

2. Where is Tenzing Hillary Airport located?
It is located in Lukla, Solukhumbu, the gateway to the Everest region in Nepal.

3. Why is Lukla Airport considered dangerous?
Due to its short, sloped runway, mountainous terrain, and frequent weather shifts, it’s known as one of the most challenging airports for pilots.

4. How long is the runway at Tenzing Hillary Airport?
The runway is just 527 meters (1,729 ft) and ends in a steep cliff, making precision landings crucial.

5. Which airlines operate flights to Lukla?
Tara Air, Sita Air, and Summit Air operate flights from Ramechhap and Kathmandu.

6. How long is the flight from Ramechhap to Lukla?
The flight takes 20 to 25 minutes with jaw-dropping mountain views.

7. Can you fly to Lukla from Kathmandu in 2025?
Yes, but only in early spring and autumn when weather and congestion allow. Most flights now depart from Ramechhap.

8. Are there helicopters to Lukla?
Yes, helicopter services from Kathmandu and Phaplu are available, especially when flights are grounded.

9. What are the airport’s operating hours?
Flights operate between 6:00 AM and 12:00 PM due to wind and cloud cover later in the day.

10. What should I expect when landing at Lukla Airport?
A thrilling landing on a sloped runway with sheer drops and close proximity to the mountains. A bucket-list experience!

11. Are there baggage restrictions?
Yes, usually 10–15 kg check-in + 5 kg carry-on. Helicopter flights may allow slightly more.

12. Is Tenzing Hillary Airport open year-round?
Technically yes, but flights may be suspended during bad weather or runway repairs.

13. Can you walk to Lukla instead of flying?
Yes. From Phaplu or Jiri, you can trek to Lukla over several days, avoiding the flight entirely.

14. How far is Lukla from Everest Base Camp?
It’s about 65 km (40 miles) from EBC. Most trekkers take 8–10 days to reach base camp from Lukla.

15. What’s the history behind the airport name?
Named after Tenzing Norgay and Sir Edmund Hillary, who helped establish the airport in 1964 to ease travel into the Everest region.