New Helicopter Too Shy to Fly, Chooses Trailer for Grand Entrance

Sindhupalchowk – For the first time in Nepal’s history, a helicopter has been imported through the Tatopani border crossing in Sindhupalchok, a major trade gateway with China. While the checkpoint has long facilitated the entry of goods such as electronics, clothing, fruit, and vehicles, the arrival of an aircraft marks a significant and unusual development in Nepal’s import landscape.

The helicopter was brought into the country on Wednesday evening aboard a 40-foot trailer operated by Ado Transport, a logistics company that routinely transports goods from various Chinese cities. The rotorcraft was purchased by Mountain Helicopters Pvt. Ltd., a Kathmandu-based aviation company, and was unloaded at the passenger section of the Tatopani Customs Office for inspection and processing.

This marks the first time that a helicopter has entered Nepal overland via a customs checkpoint, as such equipment is typically flown in or shipped through maritime ports before being transported by land. The unusual sight of a helicopter being hauled on a trailer through mountainous roads drew considerable attention from locals and officials alike, highlighting the evolving nature of trade between Nepal and China.

Officials at the customs office confirmed that clearance procedures are currently underway and are expected to be completed within the next couple of days. According to the Tatopani Customs Office, the import is expected to generate more than NPR 41.2 million in government revenue.

The importation not only reflects the increasing sophistication of Nepal’s aviation sector but also underlines the strategic importance of the Tatopani border crossing, which resumed full operations after being heavily damaged in the 2015 earthquake. As infrastructure continues to improve and trade ties with China strengthen, experts believe more high-value goods such as aircraft parts and machinery could follow similar overland routes in the future.

For now, the grounded helicopter has already managed to turn heads, not by flying, but by taking the most unexpected route into the country.