Kathmandu, July 3
For the first time ever, a helicopter has been imported into Nepal via the Tatopani customs checkpoint along the Nepal-China border. The import was carried out by Mountain Helicopters Pvt Ltd, which transported the aircraft through China and into Nepal.
According to Ram Chandra Bhusal, Corporate Manager at Mountain Helicopters, the aircraft—manufactured by Airbus in France—was shipped in a 40-foot container after being disassembled, including the removal of its rotor blades and other components.
“The helicopter was transported to the customs office in a container, and we’ll reassemble it at the site, complete the customs clearance process, and then fly it to Kathmandu,” Bhusal said. He confirmed that this is the first time the company has brought in a helicopter via the Tatopani route, having previously imported one through Kolkata port via Birgunj.
Rajendra Prasad Chudal, chief of the Tatopani Customs Office, also confirmed this is the first instance in his professional experience of a helicopter being imported through the checkpoint. “The clearance is currently in process. The import will be subject to 1% customs duty and 13% VAT,” he stated.
Nepal has two major customs points for trade with China: Tatopani and Timure. Bhusal noted that while Timure is narrower and more difficult for large cargo, Tatopani was chosen for its logistical feasibility.
“Our alternative was through the sea, via Kolkata port, which would take nearly a month,” Bhusal explained. “In contrast, the China route via Tatopani allows delivery within 8–10 days, making it far more efficient.”
Once cleared, the helicopter will be deployed for Mountain Helicopters’ flight operations, bringing the company’s total fleet to three helicopters, according to Bhusal.
