Tri-Service

Nepal Blames Overcrowding For RAF Chinook Debacle

Three RAF Chinook helicopters are being flown back to the UK after being refused permission to enter Nepal in order to help with rescue and relief operations.

Speaking to Sky News' Mark Stone the Nepalese Prime Minister Sushil Koirala said he'd refused access to the helicopters because of overcrowding at Kathmandu Airport, insisting that the decision was in no way politically motivated.

Mr Koirala said that he'd spoken with the British Prime Minister David Cameron, explained his concerns and that the matter was now closed.

Reports from the Nepali capital however suggest that there is room for the aircraft and their crews at Kathmandu Airport or at least in the wide open grass areas surrounding the runway.

Last week the UK government held 'take it or leave it talks' with Nepal over the Chinooks which have been languishing at an Indian Air Force base.

Initially the reason given for the refusal for them to assist was a worry that the downforce from the aircraft's twin-rotors could cause further damage to earthquake-hit buildings when taking off and landing.

The US however is already operating its Osprey heavy lift aircraft in the country.

Many of the Aid organisations in Nepal have called for more helicopters to be brought in but an overwhelmed government in Kathmandu appears to be struggling to manage all the help and equipment being offered.