NZFF

yesterday I went back to Nepal, this time flying the Cessna Skycourier. I started out from Phaplu (VNPL) and headed to Kathmandu (VNKT) in the early morning. It’s a short route, but a very rewarding one: narrow valleys, shifting light, and that constant feeling that a ridge might be waiting behind the next corner.

The Skycourier is quite an interesting little aircraft. It can easily take over many of the Twin Otter’s typical duties — as long as you don’t need extreme STOL performance. In the air it behaves nicely and feels solid.

On the ground, however…
The model can be a bit stubborn, almost like a mule. This is especially noticeable if you’re not using rudder pedals and instead rely on a twist-grip joystick (in my case the Thrustmaster T16000M). Ground handling becomes noticeably more demanding than expected.

Still, for operations in Nepal it’s absolutely suitable, and with an N-registration as a “demo aircraft on tour” it actually looks right at home in the region.

If anyone has recommendations for good Nepal scenery beyond the usual suspects (Lukla, Phaplu, Simikot, Jomsom, etc.), I’d be happy to hear them.

Yes I'm sure there is a niche for it, sort of a Caravan +50%?
Perhaps you'll find some more stuff here?

Great post....but that type of terrain scares me....the aircraft however just dropped down on my "must have" list
Again...great post and review.

Looks like the twotters little brother

Some nice shots

Amazing screenshots

What airport did you land at?

Regards,

Aharon

Charl:
Thanks Charl! Yes — that’s exactly how it feels: like a Caravan with a bit more muscle. And that’s a perfect match for flying in Nepal. I’ll check out the link you shared.

Splitpin:
Thanks a lot! The terrain looks intimidating, but the 408 actually gives you a good sense of reserve in the climbs. Glad it made your must-have list!

jankees:
Thanks! It really does feel like the Twotter’s little brother — just a bit more modern and calmer to handle. I had a great time with it.

Aharon:
Thank you! This hop ended the classic way: into Kathmandu, runway 02. A beautiful approach, especially in the morning light.

And as a side note:
I had actually planned to buy the Aerosoft Twin Otter and was quite surprised by its sudden disappearance. For now, the Cessna 408 fills that gap — not perfectly, but well enough to enjoy these short Nepal hops.