Overview

• The four British veterans, including Labour minister Alistair Carns, flew from London on May 16 and summited Everest in just five days by combining xenon inhalation with months of hypoxic tent training.
• Xenon gas, banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency for its blood-boosting potential, remains unvalidated for altitude acclimatization and may pose health risks.
• The International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation cautioned that untested xenon treatments threaten safety and the integrity of traditional climbing.
• Sherpa leaders warn that rapid ascents could undercut established acclimatization norms and reduce income for Nepal’s guiding communities.
• Expedition organizer Lukas Furtenbach says he plans to offer two-week, xenon-assisted Everest trips by 2026, arguing shorter climbs cut environmental impact and hazards.