Frequently Asked
Questions

Most tours operate year-round but with reduced frequency and higher weather-cancellation risk during the monsoon season (June-September), except Lukla transfers which are relatively viable year-round at lower altitude.

Generally yes, though policies vary by tour and altitude. Contact us directly to discuss specific requirements for travelling with children, particularly for high-altitude tours.

Yes. Private and bespoke charters are available for custom destinations including Manaslu, Dolpo, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Tsum Valley, with pricing quoted on request based on route and requirements.

Yes, many travellers trek partway to a destination (e.g., Annapurna Sanctuary) and use a helicopter for the return leg, or vice versa. This can be arranged as part of a custom itinerary.

Manaslu, Dolpo, Kanchenjunga, Makalu, and Tsum Valley are not on our standard tour list but are accessible via private charter, quoted on request.

Yes, the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour includes a certificate of flight; other tours may offer this as well — confirm at booking.

Yes, the hotel’s terrace offers panoramic views of Everest, Lhotse, and Ama Dablam despite the lower altitude.

It depends on the destination. Everest Base Camp and Gosaikunda tours typically depart from Kathmandu (Tribhuvan International Airport). Annapurna Base Camp and Muktinath tours typically depart from Pokhara.

The itinerary includes aerial views of Gokyo Lakes with an optional landing, in addition to the dedicated Kala Patthar landing.

The standard tour lands at Kala Patthar, which offers the closest unobstructed view of Everest’s summit; landing directly on the EBC glacier moraine is not part of the standard route.

A TIMS card or Annapurna Conservation Area permit is not included and should be arranged separately if required.

A separate Restricted Area Permit is only needed if the trip extends into Upper Mustang beyond Muktinath itself.

Yes, the Upper Mustang Restricted Area Permit is required and is not included in the tour price.

Yes, the flight departs and returns from Pokhara; travelers coming from Kathmandu need to arrange that connection separately.

Helicopter tours require minimal physical exertion compared to trekking, but the high altitudes reached (up to 5,364m) mean travellers with cardiac or respiratory conditions should consult a doctor before booking.

Per-person pricing already reflects shared-flight group rates (up to 5 passengers). For larger groups requiring multiple aircraft, contact us to discuss options.

No, this tour is focused specifically on Gokyo; travelers wanting both stops should consider the combined EBC and Gokyo Lake tour.

Helicopter segments cover the Nepal portion of the route via Simikot; travelers cross into Tibet and complete the Kailash Kora on foot.

No, this tour is focused specifically on Gokyo; travelers wanting both stops should consider the combined EBC and Gokyo Lake tour.

The tour centers on aerial sightseeing along the Mardi Himal trail rather than an extended ground stop.

We recommend booking at least a few days in advance, especially during peak season (October-November and March-May) when demand and weather constraints can limit availability.

It skips the Everest View Hotel breakfast stop, making the flight about an hour shorter while keeping the Kala Patthar landing.

The tour takes approximately 3-4 hours round trip, including landing at Annapurna Base Camp (4,130m).

The tour takes approximately 4-5 hours round trip from Kathmandu, including landing time and the breakfast stop.

Standard tours accommodate 1-5 passengers per aircraft, typically using the Airbus AS350 B3e.

The Lukla-Kathmandu helicopter transfer starts from USD 450 per person and takes approximately 45 minutes.

The Annapurna Base Camp helicopter tour starts from USD 850 per person, departing from Pokhara.

The Everest Base Camp helicopter tour starts from USD 990 per person for a shared flight, including landing at Gorak Shep and breakfast at Everest View Hotel.

The Gosaikunda Sacred Lake Helicopter Tour starts from USD 600 per person, a 3-hour round trip from Kathmandu to the lake at 4,380m.

The Muktinath Pilgrimage Helicopter Tour starts from USD 750 per person, including a stop at Jomsom, departing from Pokhara.

Yes, the standard Everest Base Camp helicopter tour includes a breakfast stop at the Everest View Hotel in Syangboche on the return leg.

Yes, Gokyo sees considerably fewer visitors than the main EBC trail, making it a quieter option with comparable mountain scenery.

Yes, the temple holds importance for both Hindu and Buddhist pilgrims, which is part of what makes it a notable pilgrimage destination.

No, the Restricted Area Permit fee is charged separately even though assistance with the permit process is included.

Yes, at 3,880 m it sits well below the 5,545 m Kala Patthar landing, making it a gentler option for altitude-sensitive travelers.

Yes, it’s generally less expensive than the helicopter transfer, though it carries a higher risk of weather-related delay or cancellation at Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport.

Aircraft have passenger weight limits relevant to altitude performance, particularly for high-altitude tours like Everest Base Camp. Specific limits can be confirmed at the time of booking.

Yes, at 3,880 m it sits well below the 5,545 m Kala Patthar landing, making it a gentler option for altitude-sensitive travelers.

Yes, it’s positioned as the most budget-friendly Annapurna-region helicopter option while still reaching dramatic mountain scenery.

We use the Airbus AS350 B3e, a CAAN-certified high-altitude capable helicopter, for all tour, rescue, and charter operations via Altitude Air.

The tour lands at Gorak Shep (5,164m) and offers views of Everest Base Camp at 5,364m.

The route offers aerial views of Ama Dablam and Everest as the helicopter heads back toward Kathmandu.

Weather-related cancellations are common given Nepal’s mountain conditions. We offer rescheduling or refund options for weather-cancelled departures — confirm specific terms when booking.

We offer six main options: Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour, Annapurna Base Camp Helicopter Tour, Muktinath Pilgrimage Helicopter Tour, Gosaikunda Sacred Lake Helicopter Tour, Lukla-Kathmandu Helicopter Transfer, and Private/Bespoke Charter.

The price includes the round-trip flight from Kathmandu, landing time at Gorak Shep, breakfast at Everest View Hotel in Syangboche, an experienced mountain pilot, and a certificate of flight.

5,364m, at Everest Base Camp, reached during the Everest Base Camp Helicopter Tour (landing at Gorak Shep, 5,164m).

The flight departs from Pokhara, crosses the Kali Gandaki gorge (the world’s deepest gorge), stops at Jomsom, and reaches Muktinath temple at 3,710m.

It preserves one of the last intact Tibetan Buddhist cultures accessible from Nepal, centered on the walled city of Lo Manthang.

Warm layers are recommended given the altitudes reached, even in warmer seasons, as temperatures drop significantly at altitudes above 4,000m. A camera and sufficient battery/storage for photos is also recommended.

A shared flight has a published per-person price and combines passengers (up to 5) on one aircraft for standard tour routes. A private charter is a dedicated flight for your group only, with custom routing and pricing quoted on request.

October to May offers the best conditions overall, with October-November and March-May being the most reliable windows for clear visibility. Monsoon season (June-September) brings increased cloud cover.

It’s most commonly used by guests of the Everest View Hotel needing to reach Lukla’s main airport.

Chhukung’s high altitude (4,730 m) adds operational complexity for the helicopter, which is reflected in the per-seat price.

It’s revered by both Hindus and Buddhists as an abode of Lord Shiva, drawing pilgrims to its high-altitude waters.

It saves the multi-hour walk between Namche and Lukla, useful for those short on time or managing fatigue.

Several insurers offer trekking-specific policies or add-ons with appropriate altitude coverage; researching policies explicitly marketed for ‘high-altitude trekking’ or ‘Himalaya trekking’ is a good starting point.

Generally no — most travel insurance must be purchased before departure or within a specific window after booking your trip, and cannot typically be purchased once you’re already in-country and a need arises.

Yes. Many policies require disclosure of pre-existing conditions, and non-disclosure could affect coverage for related emergencies. Check your policy’s specific requirements before travelling.

While not always legally mandated, comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage is strongly recommended for any trek above 3,000m, given the significant cost of high-altitude rescue.

Generally no — emergency evacuation coverage applies to medical necessity. Being stranded due to weather (e.g., a delayed Lukla flight) would typically require alternative arrangements, such as a paid helicopter transfer, rather than an insurance-covered emergency evacuation.

Not always. Some policies cover general ‘medical evacuation’ but exclude or cap helicopter-specific costs lower than realistic rescue expenses. Check the policy wording specifically for ‘helicopter evacuation’ coverage and limits.

Most comprehensive policies cover hospital treatment costs at the destination as part of medical expense coverage, separate from the evacuation/transport cost itself — check your specific policy limits.

No, the return journey, personal expenses, and travel insurance are all excluded and must be arranged independently.

No. Across all Air Dynasty tours, personal travel insurance is consistently listed under “What’s Excluded” and is strongly recommended for every traveller.

No, personal travel insurance is not included and must be arranged separately.

No, personal expenses, meals, and insurance are excluded from the tour price.

No, personal travel insurance is excluded and strongly recommended for all tours.

No, personal expenses and travel insurance are excluded from the package price.

No, personal expenses, temple entry fees, and insurance are all excluded.

No, personal insurance is listed as excluded and should be arranged before travel.

No, personal insurance and personal expenses are excluded.

Yes, and write it down physically as a backup in case your phone is lost, damaged, or out of battery — along with your policy number.

For popular treks like Everest Base Camp (5,364m) or Annapurna Circuit (Thorung La, 5,416m), your policy should explicitly cover at least 6,000m for trekking activities.

Typically a medical report from the treating facility, the flight manifest/invoice from the rescue operator, and a completed claim form. Operators with fast, complete documentation (like our 24-hour delivery standard) help speed up this process.

Repatriation coverage (commercial flight with medical escort or air ambulance, depending on severity) is typically included in comprehensive travel insurance policies — confirm this is included in yours before travelling.

If you’re in a genuine emergency, you or your guide can also contact our 24/7 line directly at +977 9810650405; we can coordinate with your insurer in parallel.

This refers to the typical market rate for a service (like a helicopter evacuation) in the relevant region. Insurers often cover costs ‘up to reasonable and customary’ rates, which is one reason transparent, market-aligned pricing from rescue operators matters.

Check the altitude limit (6,000m+), explicit helicopter evacuation coverage with a realistic limit (USD 10,000+ recommended), activity classification matching your itinerary, and a 24/7 emergency assistance number.

‘Trekking’ covers walking on established trails, even at high altitude, without technical climbing gear. ‘Mountaineering’ covers technical ascents using ropes, crampons, or ice axes (including some ‘trekking peaks’ like Island Peak). Most popular Nepal treks fall under ‘trekking’ but check your specific itinerary.

Given that high-altitude rescues can cost USD 6,000-10,000+ and remote-region rescues can exceed USD 10,000, a coverage limit of USD 10,000-15,000 or higher for helicopter evacuation specifically is a reasonable benchmark, though always check against your specific planned route.

Yes, hsj.com.np (Himalayan Social Journey) is our parent company. HSJ Heli & Assistance is its dedicated aviation, rescue, and insurance assistance division.

Yes, our office is located at Kumari Club, Shorakhutte, Kathmandu 44600. We recommend contacting us in advance to ensure the right team member is available for your inquiry.

Yes, the schedule is built around photography requirements and can include stops at Kala Patthar, EBC, and/or Gokyo depending on conditions.

Yes, the schedule is built around photography requirements and can include stops at Kala Patthar, EBC, and/or Gokyo depending on conditions.

Yes, the route and stops are tailored to the group’s preferences, potentially spanning both the Everest and Annapurna regions in one day.

Yes, the route and stops are tailored to the group’s preferences, potentially spanning both the Everest and Annapurna regions in one day.

A TIMS card or Annapurna Conservation Area permit is not included and should be arranged separately if required.

Yes. Our parent company Himalayan Social Journey has over 2,100 verified TripAdvisor reviews with an average rating of approximately 4.8 stars, and received TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice awards in 2025 and 2026.

Helicopter operations are conducted through our business alliance with Altitude Air, a CAAN-certified operator based in Kathmandu operating a modern Airbus AS350 B3e fleet.

Yes, coverage extends across the Annapurna Conservation Area, including ABC, Thorong La, Ghorepani, and Manang.

No, this is a one-way transfer; the return leg is booked separately.

It replaces only the upper portion of the trail from Lukla onward; travelers still need to reach Lukla first, by trek or flight.

For emergencies, call our 24/7 line at +977 9810650405. For general inquiries: [email protected]. For tour bookings: [email protected]. For insurance partners: [email protected].

The standard trek takes 9–11 days, while this helicopter tour reaches the lake and returns in under 3 hours.

It skips the Everest View Hotel breakfast stop, making the flight about an hour shorter while keeping the Kala Patthar landing.

Himalayan Social Journey, our parent company, was founded in 2008 — 18 years of Himalayan travel operations.

The standard trek from Syabrubesi takes 3–4 days, compared with a same-day round trip by helicopter.

Roughly 5–6 days compared with trekking back down the Khumbu trail.

Yes, the helicopter makes a brief refueling stop at Lukla Airport before continuing toward Kala Patthar.

A return option is available but should be confirmed separately when booking.

No, travelers bring their own photography or filming equipment; the tour provides the flight access and positioning support.

No, travelers bring their own photography or filming equipment; the tour provides the flight access and positioning support.

We maintain professional liability insurance and operate flight operations through Altitude Air, which holds CAAN AOC certification and associated insurance requirements.

Yes. As part of the Himalayan Social Journey Group, we pledge 7% of every booking toward funding children’s education in remote Himalayan communities.

Yes. HSJ Heli & Assistance is part of the Himalayan Social Journey (HSJ) Group, an 18-year-old Nepal trekking and travel company with over 2,100 verified TripAdvisor reviews and Travelers’ Choice awards in 2025 and 2026.

Pricing is on request and depends on group size and current operating conditions.

Yes. Flights carry onboard oxygen, an experienced mountain pilot, and the Kala Patthar stop is kept brief (roughly 15–20 minutes) to limit exposure to thin air.

Yes, it’s specifically positioned for occasions such as anniversaries, proposals, and corporate incentive trips, with VIP and concierge service included.

No, the Restricted Area Permit fee is charged separately even though assistance with the permit process is included.

Helicopters tend to face fewer weather-related disruptions than fixed-wing aircraft at Lukla’s challenging airport, though delays are still possible in poor conditions.

Yes, it’s specifically positioned for occasions such as anniversaries, proposals, and corporate incentive trips, with VIP and concierge service included.

Travelers can explore the Tibetan Buddhist monastery and surrounding village during the 20–30 minute landing.

Travelers can explore the Tibetan Buddhist monastery and surrounding village during the 20–30 minute landing.

Altitude Air is HSJ Heli & Assistance’s aviation alliance partner, a CAAN (Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal) certified helicopter operator providing the aircraft and flight crews for our rescue, tour, and charter operations.

CAAN is the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, the regulatory body that issues Air Operator Certificates (AOC) to helicopter operators. CAAN certification confirms an operator meets Nepal’s aviation safety and operational standards.

HSJ Heli & Assistance is a Kathmandu-based company providing helicopter tours, emergency rescue and medical evacuation, and insurance correspondent services across Nepal. It operates as the aviation and insurance assistance arm of Himalayan Social Journey, founded in 2008.

Our team operates in English, Nepali, and Hindi, covering the primary languages needed for both international travellers and insurance case management.

We are associated with the Nepal Tourism Board, NATTA (Nepal Association of Tour & Travel Agents), TAAN (Trekking Agencies’ Association of Nepal), and the Nepal Mountaineering Association.

Rara National Park is known to host red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and a range of bird species, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.

Rara National Park is known to host red pandas, Himalayan black bears, and a range of bird species, though sightings aren’t guaranteed.

This version cuts the extended breakfast stop, reducing total time from about 4 hours to 2 hours.

The two-day Kailash Kora, including crossing the Dolma La Pass at roughly 5,630 m, is the most physically demanding segment.

The two-day Kailash Kora, including crossing the Dolma La Pass at roughly 5,630 m, is the most physically demanding segment.

Our office is located at Kumari Club, Shorakhutte, Kathmandu 44600, Nepal.

Damodar Kunda’s extreme remoteness means very few tourists visit each year, traditionally requiring a multi-week trek that this flight bypasses.

Yes, the charter can be arranged to carry cargo together with passengers, depending on weight and configuration.

Yes, the charter can be arranged to carry cargo together with passengers, depending on weight and configuration.

Yes, tours can be booked on behalf of another traveller — contact our tours team to arrange this, providing the traveller’s details for the booking.

Payment terms for private charters, including any deposit or installment arrangements, are discussed as part of the custom quote process.

Yes, particularly for weather-related cancellations, rescheduling is generally available — confirm specific terms when booking.

Availability is confirmed directly through our booking team given the weather-dependent nature of operations — contact us with your preferred dates for current availability.

No, there’s no road access to Rara Lake; helicopter or a trek of 10 or more days are the only practical ways to visit.

The itinerary includes aerial views of Gokyo Lakes with an optional landing, in addition to the dedicated Kala Patthar landing.

A separate Restricted Area Permit is only needed if the trip extends into Upper Mustang beyond Muktinath itself.

Most travellers require a visa to enter Nepal, available on arrival for many nationalities at Tribhuvan International Airport or in advance via Nepali embassies/consulates. Check current requirements for your nationality before travel.

Yes, the flight departs and returns from Pokhara; travelers coming from Kathmandu need to arrange that connection separately.

Yes, this flight only covers the Gorakshep-to-Lukla leg; onward travel to Kathmandu is arranged separately.

Yes, this flight only covers the Gorakshep-to-Lukla leg; onward travel to Kathmandu is arranged separately.

Yes, combined itineraries — such as trekking partway and returning by helicopter, or vice versa — can be arranged. Contact us to discuss a custom combined package

Pickup arrangements can be discussed at booking, particularly for Kathmandu-based hotels near the departure point.

Yes, it replaces what would otherwise be a multi-day walk back from the Gokyo Lakes area to Lukla.

Helicopter segments cover the Nepal portion of the route via Simikot; travelers cross into Tibet and complete the Kailash Kora on foot.

No, this is a one-way transfer; the return leg is booked separately.

It replaces only the upper portion of the trail from Lukla onward; travelers still need to reach Lukla first, by trek or flight.

The tour centers on aerial sightseeing along the Mardi Himal trail rather than an extended ground stop.

Yes, it replaces what would otherwise be a multi-day walk back from the Gokyo Lakes area to Lukla.

Contact us via [email protected], call +977 9810650405, or use the contact form on our website to check availability and book.

Contact us with your desired destination(s), number of passengers, and any specific requirements (ground time, filming equipment, etc.) for a custom quote based on flight time and route.

The standard trek takes 9–11 days, while this helicopter tour reaches the lake and returns in under 3 hours

We recommend arriving at least 30-60 minutes before your scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and safety briefing — specific timing will be confirmed at booking.

The Langtang Valley sits about 60 km north of Kathmandu, making it one of the closer Himalayan helicopter destinations.

Around 15 to 30 minutes on the ground for photography and sightseeing before continuing to the breakfast stop.

The standard trek from Syabrubesi takes 3–4 days, compared with a same-day round trip by helicopter.

Roughly 5–6 days compared with trekking back down the Khumbu trail.

It replaces roughly two days of walking that would normally be needed to reach Namche Bazaar from Lukla.

It replaces roughly two days of walking that would normally be needed to reach Namche Bazaar from Lukla.

Yes, the helicopter makes a brief refueling stop at Lukla Airport before continuing toward Kala Patthar.

A return option is available but should be confirmed separately when booking.

Yes, this segment is priced lower than a direct Dingboche-to-Kathmandu flight, with onward travel from Lukla booked separately.

Yes, this segment is priced lower than a direct Dingboche-to-Kathmandu flight, with onward travel from Lukla booked separately.

Pricing is on request and depends on group size and current operating conditions.

Yes, it’s generally less expensive than the helicopter transfer, though it carries a higher risk of weather-related delay or cancellation at Lukla’s Tenzing-Hillary Airport.

Helicopters tend to face fewer weather-related disruptions than fixed-wing aircraft at Lukla’s challenging airport, though delays are still possible in poor conditions.

Yes, it’s positioned as the most budget-friendly Annapurna-region helicopter option while still reaching dramatic mountain scenery.

Helicopters generally have more flexibility in marginal weather than fixed-wing aircraft, reducing the risk of cancellation, though no flight to Lukla is guaranteed in poor conditions.

It’s used both for rescue operations and as a return option for climbers finishing Mera Peak expeditions.

Yes, it operates as a 24/7 emergency dispatch service for the Gokyo Valley area.

It suits travelers who want both major Everest-region landmarks in one trip rather than booking two separate flights.

Travel insurance is not typically required to book a scenic helicopter tour, though we always recommend comprehensive travel insurance for any travel in Nepal, particularly given the altitudes involved.

The route offers aerial views of Ama Dablam and Everest as the helicopter heads back toward Kathmandu.

Contact us as soon as possible if you anticipate missing a scheduled departure; depending on circumstances and availability, rescheduling may be possible, though this cannot be guaranteed, particularly during high-demand periods.

Mountain weather can change quickly, so flights may be rescheduled or refunded; Air Dynasty handles changes case by case rather than guaranteeing a fixed alternative.

Passport identification is typically required for verification purposes — bring your passport for any helicopter tour booking.

Cancellation policies, including weather-related cancellations and traveller-initiated cancellations, can be confirmed at the time of booking.

Payment methods can be confirmed at the time of booking — contact our tours team for current options.

The shorter version cuts the extended breakfast stop, reducing total time from about 4 hours to 2 hours.

Charters are arranged for a minimum of 3 hours, with longer durations available depending on the itinerary.

Everest Base Camp and Gosaikunda tours typically depart from Tribhuvan International Airport, Kathmandu. Annapurna Base Camp and Muktinath tours typically depart from Pokhara Airport.

It’s a stop just before Gorakshep, used by trekkers heading toward or returning from Everest Base Camp and Kala Patthar.

Kothe sits on the Hinku Valley route used by climbers heading toward Mera Peak.

Film crews, corporate groups, research teams, and NGOs needing full control over logistics and timing commonly use this service.

Film crews, corporate groups, research teams, and NGOs needing full control over logistics and timing commonly use this service.

It’s most commonly used by guests of the Everest View Hotel needing to reach Lukla’s main airport.

Chhukung’s high altitude (4,730 m) adds operational complexity for the helicopter, which is reflected in the per-seat price.

Damodar Kunda’s extreme remoteness means very few tourists visit each year, traditionally requiring a multi-week trek that this flight bypasses.

The extreme altitude of the Kala Patthar pick-up point (5,545 m) adds operational demands, which is reflected in the premium price.

The extreme altitude of the Kala Patthar pick-up point (5,545 m) adds operational demands, which is reflected in the premium price.

It saves the multi-hour walk between Namche and Lukla, useful for those short on time or managing fatigue.

Yes, we coordinate repatriation logistics including commercial flights with medical escort, air ambulance for serious cases, and in the most severe cases, repatriation of remains, working with embassies and airlines as needed.

Evacuations are based on medical necessity, not personal preference. If you wish to end a trek for non-medical reasons, alternative transport arrangements (rather than emergency evacuation) would typically apply.

Yes, it doubles as an evacuation option for trekkers who develop altitude sickness near EBC, in addition to standard return travel.

Yes, it doubles as an evacuation option for trekkers who develop altitude sickness near EBC, in addition to standard return travel.

If your insurer issues a Guarantee of Payment (GOP), you typically do not need to pay upfront. Without a GOP, payment arrangements may need to be confirmed before or shortly after dispatch.

Yes, we support search and rescue operations for missing trekkers or post-incident response, coordinating with Nepal’s Tourist SAR Committee where applicable.

We coordinate with international insurers and assistance companies on a case-by-case basis and maintain ongoing relationships with 10+ established insurance partners. Contact our insurance desk to confirm coordination for your specific insurer.

Yes, coverage extends across the Annapurna Conservation Area, including ABC, Thorong La, Ghorepani, and Manang.

Yes, weather is the primary factor that can delay helicopter dispatch even in emergencies, as flights cannot safely proceed in unsafe conditions. Our team monitors weather continuously to dispatch as soon as conditions allow.

Call our 24/7 emergency line at +977 9810650405, available by phone or WhatsApp

Contact your travel insurer’s 24/7 emergency assistance line (the number provided with your policy) and report the situation. If it meets policy criteria, they issue a GOP directly to the rescue operator.

Our medical coordinator reviews case details — symptoms, location, severity — before or immediately upon dispatch to confirm the evacuation is medically warranted.

Our target is to have a CAAN-certified helicopter airborne within 60 minutes of a confirmed emergency dispatch.

We aim to deliver full case documentation — flight manifest, medical report, and invoice — to your insurer within 24 hours of case closure.

Aircraft capacity is typically 1-5 passengers depending on altitude and aircraft performance requirements; multiple patients can be evacuated on a single flight if circumstances allow

Costs vary by region and altitude: approximately USD 3,000-5,000 for lower-altitude areas like Namche Bazaar, USD 6,000-10,000 for Everest Base Camp and similar high-altitude areas, and USD 10,000+ for remote regions like Makalu or Kanchenjunga.

Helicopter operations in mountainous terrain are generally limited to daylight hours due to visual flight rules and terrain risk; nighttime rescues may require waiting until first light depending on conditions and location.

Medical evacuation flights are equipped to support patients with altitude-related conditions; specific onboard medical equipment can be confirmed as part of case coordination.

Yes, it’s commonly used for both emergency evacuation and as a standard descent shortcut for trekkers.

Yes, it operates as a 24/7 emergency dispatch service for the Gokyo Valley area.

It’s used both for rescue operations and as a return option for climbers finishing Mera Peak expeditions.

It serves both as a rescue option and as a convenience flight for trekkers who simply prefer not to walk down.

It serves both as a rescue option and as a convenience flight for trekkers who simply prefer not to walk down.

AMS symptoms include headache, nausea, and fatigue. HAPE warning signs include severe breathlessness and cough. HACE warning signs include confusion, loss of coordination, and severe unresponsive headache — these require immediate descent.

The most common conditions are altitude sickness (AMS, HAPE, HACE), trauma from falls or accidents, cardiac and acute medical emergencies, and search and rescue (SAR) situations.

You’ll be flown to a partner hospital in Kathmandu (or the nearest appropriate facility), where medical staff take over your care. Our team coordinates with your insurer in parallel for billing and case documentation.

We coordinate with leading partner hospitals in Kathmandu equipped for trauma and altitude-related medical care. Specific hospital arrangements are coordinated per case based on the patient’s condition.

Rescue can still be coordinated, but without a Guarantee of Payment from an insurer, payment arrangements (such as direct payment) would need to be confirmed. We strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance with helicopter evacuation coverage before any high-altitude trek.

Legitimate rescue dispatch should follow a medical assessment of necessity, not be requested unilaterally. If you have concerns about whether an evacuation is medically necessary, you can request a second opinion if circumstances allow.

Provide the patient’s name, location (GPS coordinates or named landmark), a description of symptoms/condition, and your insurance policy details if available.

A GOP is a formal commitment from your insurer or assistance company confirming they will pay for the evacuation, allowing the rescue operator to dispatch without requiring upfront payment from the patient.

AMS (Acute Mountain Sickness) is the mildest and most common form of altitude sickness, causing headache, nausea, and fatigue above approximately 2,500m. It is usually managed with rest and avoiding further ascent.

HACE (High Altitude Cerebral Edema) is swelling of the brain due to altitude, causing severe headache, confusion, loss of coordination, and in severe cases, loss of consciousness. It is life-threatening and requires immediate descent.

HAPE (High Altitude Pulmonary Edema) is a buildup of fluid in the lungs at high altitude, causing severe shortness of breath, cough, and extreme fatigue. It is a medical emergency requiring immediate descent, often via helicopter.

Our operations cover rescue up to 5,364m (Everest Base Camp), and across all major CAAN-approved trekking regions in Nepal.

Single-invoice billing means one helicopter flight generates exactly one invoice for its actual cost, regardless of how many patients were aboard — preventing duplicate billing to multiple insurers for the same flight.

Its extreme distance from Kathmandu combined with high altitude makes it one of the more technically demanding rescue operations Air Dynasty undertakes.

Do not wait. Contact your guide, lodge owner, or emergency services immediately, as HACE can be fatal within hours. Call your insurer’s emergency line and/or our 24/7 line at +977 9810650405.

Patients are evacuated to a hospital in Kathmandu for further treatment.

Patients are evacuated to a hospital in Kathmandu for further treatment.

We cover Everest/Khumbu, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang/Gosaikunda, Mustang/Muktinath, Manaslu/Tsum Valley, and Dolpo/Far West regions.

The extreme altitude and thin air around Kala Patthar, Gorakshep, and EBC make helicopter operations and patient stabilization significantly more demanding than at lower elevations.

The extreme altitude and thin air around Kala Patthar, Gorakshep, and EBC make helicopter operations and patient stabilization significantly more demanding than at lower elevations.

References can be discussed during the partner onboarding process — contact our partnerships desk via the application form or directly at [email protected].

Yes, we work with corporate travel managers and assistance companies for case coordination relevant to corporate travellers in Nepal — contact us to discuss your program’s needs.

Yes, each case is assigned a named case manager to maintain accountability and a single point of contact throughout the case lifecycle.

Yes, single-invoice billing is a core standard for HSJ Heli & Assistance — one flight generates one invoice reflecting the actual cost, regardless of passenger count.

Both models can be discussed — from formal partnership agreements with established protocols to ad hoc case coordination for insurers without a standing relationship. Contact our partnerships desk to discuss what fits your organisation.

For genuinely time-critical cases with established partners, dispatch-before-GOP-confirmation arrangements can be discussed as part of an ongoing partnership relationship.

Visit /insurance-partners/ and complete our partner application form, which covers company identity, operational capabilities, billing details, and compliance attestations. We typically respond within 2 business days.

A medical coordinator reviews case details to confirm medical necessity before or immediately upon dispatch, as part of our anti-fraud protocols.

Our differentiators include a published single-invoice billing standard, pre-dispatch medical necessity verification, 24-hour documentation delivery, multilingual case management, and the backing of an 18-year established parent company (Himalayan Social Journey) and CAAN-certified aviation alliance (Altitude Air).

We currently serve 10+ international insurance companies as a Nepal correspondent.

We target delivery of full case documentation — flight manifest, medical report, and invoice — within 24 hours of case closure.

No. For all four rescue services, costs depend on insurance and emergency arrangements — travelers must have their own coverage in place.

No. Details depend on insurance and emergency arrangements — costs vary based on the individual’s insurance policy.

No. Details depend on the individual’s insurance and emergency arrangements — travelers must have their own coverage.

No. Details depend on insurance and emergency arrangements — travelers must carry their own coverage.

No. Details depend on insurance and emergency arrangements — travelers must carry their own coverage.

No, HSJ Heli & Assistance was not implicated in the fraud allegations investigated in Nepal’s rescue sector. We have proactively adopted high billing-transparency standards in response to industry-wide scrutiny.

Our protocols include single-invoice billing, pre-dispatch medical necessity verification, full audit-trail documentation with timestamps, and CAAN AOC-certified aircraft via our Altitude Air alliance.

We can accommodate USD, EUR, GBP, AUD, CHF, and other currencies by arrangement, specify your preference in the partner application.

We aim to resolve billing disputes within 48 hours, supported by our single-invoice documentation and audit trail.

Patient name, policy number, location (GPS or named landmark), a brief description of the condition, and confirmation of the reporting party’s relationship to the patient.

Flight operations are conducted via our alliance partner Altitude Air, which holds CAAN (Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal) AOC certification for its fleet.

Our insurance desk is structured to minimise back-and-forth on GOP requests; specific turnaround commitments can be discussed during partner onboarding based on case type and urgency.

English, Nepali, and Hindi.

Professional indemnity insurance details can be shared during the partner due diligence process — contact our partnerships desk for specifics relevant to your onboarding requirements.

Everest/Khumbu, Annapurna Circuit, Langtang/Gosaikunda, Mustang/Muktinath, Manaslu/Tsum Valley, and Dolpo/Far West, plus other CAAN-approved zones.

We provide Guarantee of Payment (GOP) coordination, medical evacuation dispatch, hospital coordination, case documentation, repatriation support, and multilingual case management for Nepal-based cases.