KATHMANDU: The aerial search for two missing Japanese climbers on Gangapurna West peak in western Nepal has been intensified with a team of trained rescuers, officials said.

Senior Captain Sobit Gauchan of Altitude Air, along with IFMGA/NNMGA climber Pasang Rinzee Sherpa and renowned drone pilot Manish Maharjan, reached the area this morning and are continuing their search mission for the fifth day, said Nima Nuru Sherpa, Chairman of Altitude Air.

"The team led by Instructor Pilot Gauchan flew today to the Machhapuchhre Base Camp area to search for the missing climbers — Hidesuke Taneishi and Tetsu Hashimoto," Sherpa said.

The team began the aerial search on October 19 after the duo went missing while attempting Gangapurna Peak on October 15.

"The team carried out a search in the Manang village area on October 19 but found no evidence. Then they reached the Manang village area on October 20 and 21 but to no avail," Sherpa said.

However, on October 21, the team again flew to the Machhapuchhre base camp area in Kaski, where they discovered the climbers' bags and trekking poles, he added.

"The team again flew today to the area where the climbing logistics were discovered," Sherpa shared. The Gauchan-led team will continue the search in the Machhapuchhre Base Camp area today, according to him.

The climbers began their alpine style expedition on the 7,455-metre mountain with a Nepali guide after arranging the trip through Kathmandu-based Cosmo Adventure.

Police said the climbers were reported missing after contact with them was lost from an altitude of around 7,050 metres. Their guide informed the company on October 16, according to the police.

Vijay Sharma, Chairman of Cosmo Adventure, said the search for the missing climbers has been intensified by mobilizing an Altitude Air helicopter with a search crew. "Both climbers were there to climb Gangapurna West in alpine style, and Hasta Rai was there as base camp staff," Sharma said.

In coordination with the Japanese Embassy and family members, the search will continue, he added.