Fake Helicopter Rescues in Nepal Net Millions in Insurance Claims

 Authorities in Nepal have uncovered a scheme involving fake helicopter rescues that generated millions of rupees in fraudulent insurance claims, raising serious concerns about abuse within the country’s rescue and tourism sectors. Investigators say several rescue flights were staged or exaggerated to claim insurance money without genuine medical emergencies.

According to officials, some trekking agencies, pilots, and hospital staff are suspected of working together to arrange unnecessary helicopter evacuations. In many cases, trekkers with minor illnesses were airlifted and later billed as critical rescue cases, allowing claims to be submitted to insurance companies.

The Civil Aviation Authority and insurance regulators have launched a detailed investigation into the matter. Several individuals have been questioned, and flight records, medical reports, and insurance documents are being reviewed to determine the scale of the fraud and identify those responsible.

Experts warn that such practices not only harm the insurance system but also damage Nepal’s tourism reputation. The government has said it will strengthen monitoring mechanisms and take strict legal action to prevent misuse of emergency rescue services in the future.