10Tenzing-Hillary Airport, Lukla, Nepal
Located high in the Himalayas, Tenzing-Hillary Airport in Lukla is frequently described as one of the world’s most challenging airports. It serves as an important gateway for travellers heading towards Mount Everest and is surrounded by dramatic mountain scenery.
What makes this airport particularly demanding is its runway, which measures approximately 527 metres. It has a steep uphill gradient and sits between a mountain wall and a dramatic drop into the valley. The high altitude also affects aircraft performance, while rapidly changing mountain weather can make flying conditions unpredictable.
The combination of a short runway, surrounding terrain and limited options for manoeuvring makes Lukla a destination that requires specially trained pilots and suitable aircraft.
