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.
