Impact on Tourism
Taranath Pahari, President of the Pokhara Tourism Council, has called on the state government to reopen paragliding schools and lift restrictions on solo paragliding in Pokhara. Highlighting that Pokhara's paragliding sport ranks among the top five in the world, Pahaari stated that current government restrictions are forcing foreign tourists to divert to India.
Challenges Facing Pilots and Flight Schools
Pahari pointed out that the current airspace allocation for solo flights is overly restricted, describing it as feeling like a "cage." He emphasized the need to harmonize airport operations with paragliding activities rather than enforcing complete closures. According to Pahaari, the ongoing shutdown of paragliding schools risks reducing the current pool of around 230 tandem pilots over time.
Demand for Airspace Expansion
Previously, solo gliders visited Pokhara for long stays lasting two to three months, making paragliding one of the most significant tourist sectors for the region. Pahari urged the authorities to expand the designated solo flying airspace behind Sarangkot and quickly resolve operational conflicts to restore international events and incoming tourism.
