Nepal's domestic airlines have suspended all mountain flights from Kathmandu to lucara from April 1 due to an overhaul of the only runway at tribhuvan international airport.

It is located in rameichab district, about 85 km from Kathmandu. It is about five hours by car from Kathmandu's international airport.

Lucara is the nearest civilian airport to the south face of the mountain, which is used by almost all trekkers and climbers.

Tribhuvan international airport is Nepal's only international airport, divided into domestic and international parts. They share a runway that was built in 1975 and is now overwhelmed. Airport authorities decided to overhaul it, beginning April 1 and ending June 30, affecting almost all international and domestic flights.

In response, many travel agencies in Nepal said that the upcoming spring climbing season, the government's move is not wise. But tribwan airport authorities counter that the runway is a matter of safety and that the current dry season is the best time to repair it.

Source: xinhuanet