Tara Air is a premier regional airline in Nepal, specializing in short takeoff and landing (STOL) flights to some of the most remote and challenging airstrips in the world. As a subsidiary of Yeti Airlines, Tara Air focuses on connecting Nepal’s rugged and isolated regions, playing an indispensable role in transportation, tourism, and emergency services.

Company Overview

• Founded: 2009 (operating as the STOL arm of Yeti Airlines)

• Headquarters: Kathmandu, Nepal

• Main Hub: Tribhuvan International Airport (Kathmandu) and Nepalgunj Airport

Tara Air’s name reflects its mission — “Tara” means “star” in Nepali — guiding passengers safely across Nepal’s skies.

Fleet Details

Tara Air operates a fleet of robust aircraft designed specifically for high-altitude, short-runway operations:

• De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter (the workhorse for remote airstrips)

• Viking Air DHC-6 Series 400 (modern version of the Twin Otter)

• Dornier 228

These aircraft are ideal for navigating steep valleys, short runways, and unpredictable weather conditions common in the Himalayan region.

Destinations

Tara Air primarily serves remote locations where access by road is difficult or impossible. Popular destinations include:

• Lukla (gateway to Mount Everest)

• Jomsom (entry to Mustang and Muktinath Temple)

• Rara (Rara Lake region)

• Simikot (gateway to Mt. Kailash pilgrimages)

• Phaplu (lower Everest region)

• Dolpa (Shey Phoksundo National Park)

These flights are vital for both tourism and the daily lives of local residents.

Unique Services

Critical Supply and Medical Evacuation

Tara Air is often called upon for:

• Medical evacuations (medevac)

• Emergency rescues

• Delivery of critical supplies (food, medicine, equipment) to isolated areas

This makes the airline a lifeline for many remote Himalayan communities.

Adventure Tourism Support

The airline supports trekking, mountaineering, and pilgrimage tourism, providing essential access to some of Nepal’s most famous trekking routes, including the Everest Base Camp trek and the Annapurna Circuit.

Safety and Challenges

Operating in the Himalayas presents significant challenges:

• Weather volatility

• Very short and sloped runways

• High-altitude flying complexities

Tara Air follows stringent safety protocols and pilot training programs. However, the extreme flying conditions mean that travelers should always remain flexible, as weather-related delays are common.

Recent Developments

Tara Air continues to modernize its fleet and operations:

• Fleet upgrades to improve reliability and safety

• Partnerships with Yeti Airlines to streamline booking and customer service

• Ongoing efforts to enhance safety standards in accordance with Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) guidelines

Awards and Recognition

Tara Air is recognized for:

• Expertise in short runway operations

• Supporting rural development by improving access

• Contributions to Nepal’s tourism and adventure sectors

Trivia and Interesting Facts

• Lukla Airport, one of Tara Air’s most famous destinations, is often cited as “the world’s most dangerous airport.”

• Tara Air pilots are considered some of the most skilled in the world due to the extremely challenging conditions they fly in daily.

Final Thoughts

Tara Air is much more than an airline — it’s a critical bridge between Nepal’s remote communities and the rest of the world. For travelers seeking true adventure, breathtaking aerial views, and access to Nepal’s hidden wonders, Tara Air offers an unforgettable flying experience rooted in resilience, precision, and a deep understanding of the mountains.