How much does a helicopter flight to or from Lukla cost?
Kathmandu to Lukla starts from $400 per person on a shared seat, or $2,500 per aircraft for a private charter. Lukla to Kathmandu starts from $580 per person shared. Prices vary by season, availability and demand — use the price calculator for a quick estimate.
What is the difference between a shared seat and a private charter?
A shared seat puts you on a scheduled flight with other passengers and is priced per person. A private charter is priced per aircraft, so it works out cheaper per head for a group and lets you plan the flight around your own group.
How much baggage can I carry?
Most flights allow a maximum of 15 kg per passenger. The Everest Base Camp tour allows 5 kg and Gorakshep to Gokyo allows 10 kg. Heavier loads can sometimes be arranged separately — ask us when booking.
When do helicopters fly?
Operations run daily in the morning flying window under VFR (visual) conditions only, because mountain weather usually clouds over later in the day.
What happens if the weather is bad?
Flights depart only when it is safe. If your flight is delayed or cancelled for weather, we monitor conditions and reschedule you on the next available departure. See our weather delays guide for tips on building buffer days into your plan.
How far in advance should I book?
We recommend booking 3 to 5 days ahead, and earlier in the April–May and October–November peak seasons. Last-minute seats are often possible — message us on WhatsApp for the fastest answer.
How can I pay?
Bank transfer, card payment or cash on arrival. We confirm the final fare before you pay.
What is the difference between a helicopter flight and an airline flight to Lukla?
Airline flights are scheduled fixed-wing tickets on Sita Air, Summit Air or Tara Air between Kathmandu or Ramechhap and Lukla, from $199 per person. Helicopter flights are shared seats or private charters that can also reach high villages like Gorakshep, Namche and Base Camp, and often fly when airline flights are held by weather. See our helicopter vs airline guide.
How much is a regular Kathmandu to Lukla flight ticket?
A one-way airline ticket from Kathmandu to Lukla is $257 for foreign nationals, INR 13,750 for Indian citizens and NPR 10,600 for Nepali citizens (NPR 6,600 for guides and staff). Lukla to Kathmandu is $257, Ramechhap to Lukla $199 and Lukla to Ramechhap $199.
Why do some Lukla airline flights leave from Ramechhap?
During the spring and autumn peaks most Lukla flights are moved to Manthali Airport in Ramechhap to ease air-traffic congestion in Kathmandu. Ramechhap is about 4–5 hours by road from Kathmandu, and the flight to Lukla takes 15–18 minutes.
Can you arrange a rescue or medical evacuation?
Yes. We coordinate emergency rescue and medical evacuation with our operators around the clock. Contact us on WhatsApp or phone immediately — and make sure your travel insurance covers helicopter evacuation at altitude.
Still unsure? Contact us — we reply 24/7.
What our passengers say
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“The team organised our Lukla flight perfectly… had us on the helicopter within 30 minutes. Exceptional service.”
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