In Nepal, going to remote corners of the Himalaya is not a problem for visitors. In fact, it is a pleasurable and exciting activity. How? By helicopter!. Since the whirlybird needs only a small landing space, it can be hired to take tourists to whichever destination and at whatever time they want to go. No wonder chartering a helicopter for sight-seeing has become a popular tourist activity in Nepal.
There are two types of helicopters currently operating in the private sector. The most frequently seen is the powerful Russian made MI-17. This is a big bird, capable of transporting 22 passengers or four tons of cargo.
The other craft is the smaller and more maneuverable French made Ecureuil AS35OB series. This sports car of the rotor world is smooth and quiet and offers excellent visibility. Wide bodied and comfortable, it can carry five passengers and the newest models can land at 6.100 m. They are thus ideal for Himalayan sight-seeing and intimate charters.
