Ascending Mt. Everest through soaring flight

Abstract

Mt. Everest has been climbed from all major approaches but one: an ascent from near it base to it summit in a sailplane using the rising air expected to flow over the massif. The diplomatic, logistical, aircraft and meteorological requirements for such a flight appear achievable. The required meteorological conditions are a deep, dry, moderately-strong, stably-stratified airflow from the southwest over the massif. A flight track is estimated through graphical analyses of expected hill-lift between Namche Bazar, Nepal, and the Everest summit 28 km to the NE. The flight analyses indicate that a soaring ascent may be possible. However, like any of the previous climbing ascents of Everest, the actual ffight may be a series of climbs and retreats. Accumulated skills and knowledge plus a measure of luck should lead to a successful flight.