If you’ve ever used flight-tracking apps like Flightradar24, you may have noticed a curious absence of flights over Tibet, despite the visible routes crisscrossing other parts of the globe. This gap in air traffic isn’t due to a lack of interest but rather to practical and safety considerations related to the region’s unique geographical features.
The Tibetan Plateau: A High Altitude Challenge
The Tibetan Plateau, with an area of approximately 965,000 square miles—nearly four times the size of Texas—is one of the highest regions on Earth. Its average elevation of about 14,800 feet places it among the most elevated landmasses globally. This plateau is also home to several major mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, which contain the world’s highest peak, Mount Everest. This extreme altitude has earned the plateau the moniker “the roof of the world.”
Why Altitude Matters for Air Travel
Despite the fact that commercial airplanes cruise at altitudes between 30,000 and 42,000 feet—well above the Tibetan Plateau’s average elevation—this high altitude still impacts flight operations. If a plane experiences decompression at cruising altitude, oxygen masks will deploy, and the aircraft must descend rapidly to a lower altitude with more oxygen, typically below 10,000 feet. However, the Tibetan Plateau’s high elevation makes it difficult to descend to a safe level quickly, posing a risk for flights in distress. Therefore, many airlines opt to avoid this region for safety reasons.
Turbulence and Passenger Comfort
In addition to the risks associated with altitude, the Tibetan Plateau’s mountainous terrain contributes to turbulent air conditions. Just as passengers might experience turbulence over mountain ranges like the Rockies, the continuous mountainous landscape of the Tibetan Plateau can result in prolonged and uncomfortable turbulence. To ensure a smoother and more pleasant flight experience, airlines generally steer clear of this region unless necessary.
Airports and Accessibility
Despite the challenges, there are five major airports in Tibet, indicating that not all airlines completely avoid the region. However, unless Tibet is your final destination, flights are likely to navigate around the plateau. The detour offers travelers the chance to enjoy breathtaking mountain views during their journey.
Conclusion
The absence of flights over the Tibetan Plateau on flight-tracking apps is a result of the region’s extreme altitude and challenging terrain. While safety and passenger comfort are the primary reasons for this air traffic pattern, the surrounding natural beauty provides an added bonus for those flying around the plateau. Whether for safety or scenic enjoyment, the Tibetan Plateau remains a notable feature in the world of air travel.