Taplejung Airport, also known as Suketar Airport, is a domestic airport located in the Taplejung district of Nepal. This airport serves as a vital transportation hub for the region, providing access to the remote and mountainous areas of eastern Nepal.

The airport is situated in the eastern part of the country, at an elevation of 1,763 meters above sea level. It has a single asphalt runway, which is 518 meters in length. Due to its high altitude and challenging terrain, Taplejung Airport is considered to be one of the most difficult and dangerous airports in Nepal.

Despite its challenging conditions, Taplejung Airport plays a crucial role in connecting the local communities to the rest of the country. The airport serves as a gateway for tourists and trekkers who are looking to explore the stunning landscapes of the Kanchenjunga National Park and the surrounding areas.

Due to the airport’s limited infrastructure and difficult operating conditions, only small aircraft such as the Twin Otter and Dornier 228 are able to land and take off from Taplejung Airport. These aircraft are able to navigate the challenging terrain and short runway, making them the preferred choice for flights to and from the airport.

The regional airline, Tara Air, operates regular flights to Taplejung Airport from Kathmandu. These flights provide a vital lifeline for the local communities, as they allow residents to access essential services such as healthcare, education, and business opportunities.

In addition to serving as a transportation hub, Taplejung Airport also plays a key role in supporting the local economy. The airport helps to facilitate tourism in the region, attracting visitors who come to explore the area’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Tourism is an important source of income for the local communities, providing employment opportunities and boosting the economy of the region.

Despite its importance, Taplejung Airport faces a number of challenges. The airport’s limited infrastructure and difficult operating conditions make it vulnerable to adverse weather conditions, landslides, and other natural disasters. In addition, the airport lacks modern facilities such as navigation aids and runway lights, which can make operations more difficult, especially during night time or poor weather conditions.

In conclusion, Taplejung Airport is a vital transportation hub for the remote and mountainous region of eastern Nepal. Despite its challenging conditions, the airport plays a crucial role in connecting the local communities to the rest of the country, supporting the local economy, and facilitating tourism in the region. However, in order to continue to serve the needs of the local communities and visitors, it is essential that efforts are made to improve the airport’s infrastructure and safety standards.