SOLUKHUMBU, JANUARY 6 The District Administration Office, Solukhumbu, has expressed serious concerns over unauthorized restrictions on helicopter flights to various helipads in the district. Sagarmatha National Park eases helicopter flight restrictions Heli flights to Everest region suspended as locals warn of action against crew members This comes after the Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) announced the suspension of flights to the region following actions by local youth groups, who erected flag barriers on helipads and threatened helicopter crews. In a press release issued on Monday, Solukhumbu DAO noted that public complaints have been received regarding the negative impact of these restrictions on disaster response, medical rescues, and tourism. The DAO warned that legal action will be taken against individuals or groups obstructing helicopter operations. Read Also:Heli flights to Everest region suspended as locals warn of action against crew members Flag barriers were installed by youth groups due to dissatisfaction with the failure of Khumbu Pasang Lhamu Rural Municipality to regulate helicopter traffic. The Sagarmatha National Park (SNP) had previously issued a directive to halt all commercial helicopter flights from January 1, citing environmental and noise pollution concerns and the need for stricter regulation of business activities in the region. However, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) dismissed calls for a flight suspension, urging companies to continue operations. Despite multiple discussions involving AOAN, SNP, and local authorities, no resolution has been reached. In response to the escalating issue, AOAN warned that short takeoff and landing (STOL) airlines operating in the area may also suspend services unless safety is assured. Commenting on the situation, Robert Kay, a prominent climber from the USA, stated, "This is clearly about money while they try to sell the idea that they are concerned about the environment. To be intellectually honest they need to also end all tree cutting, stop burning yak dung, properly dispose of all garbage, etc. The Khumbu is so very prosperous compared with most of Nepal. I feel this idea will ultimately hurt the area. Many people don't have the time to travel to Nepal and then do a long trek. Being able to shorten the time away from home by flying enables more people to visit the area."