One of the world's most extreme and dangerous airports.
Opened
1964
Location
Lukla, Nepal
Tenzing-Hillary Airport, located in Lukla in the Solukhumbu District of Nepal, serves as the primary gateway for trekkers and climbers heading to the Everest region. Situated at an elevation of approximately 2,860 metres (9,383 feet) above sea level, it is widely regarded as one of the most dangerous airports in the world due to its short runway, mountainous terrain, and unpredictable weather conditions.
The airport was renamed in 2008 in honor of Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary, the first climbers to summit Mount Everest. It features a single runway measuring only about 527 metres (1,729 feet) in length, which ends abruptly at a steep drop-off on one end and a mountain wall on the other. Flights operate exclusively during daylight hours and are highly weather-dependent.
The airport handles primarily small turboprop aircraft and helicopters, connecting Lukla to Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport. It is a critical lifeline for the local Sherpa communities and the Everest trekking industry, handling thousands of passengers each trekking season.
Terminals
The airport has a single small terminal building with basic passenger facilities suited to its low-volume, seasonal traffic.
Getting to & from
There is no road connecting Lukla to major urban centers; travel to and from the airport relies entirely on air transport or multi-day trekking.
Airlines here
Tara Air and Summit Air are among the primary operators serving Lukla, operating small turboprop aircraft on the Kathmandu–Lukla route.
Notable facts
- ›The runway slope is approximately 12%, designed to assist with natural braking on landing and acceleration on takeoff.
- ›The airport was originally built with funding from Sir Edmund Hillary to support the local Sherpa community.
- ›It has been listed by multiple aviation sources as one of the most dangerous airports in the world.
- ›Flights are frequently cancelled or delayed due to fog, clouds, and high winds common in the Himalayan region.
- ›The airport operates without radar or instrument landing systems, relying on visual flight rules only.
This profile is provided for general information only. Details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airport's official website before acting on them.
