Four airports across various regions in Nepal have undergone significant upgrades, despite remaining non-operational for extended periods. Located in Humde (Manang), Palungtar (Gorkha), Balewa (Baglung), and Dhorpatan, these airports have seen investments totaling millions of Nepalese Rupees. Despite previous investments in runway and infrastructure construction, operational challenges persist.
Humde Airport in Manang’s Gyasang Rural Municipality received substantial investments, including blacktopping of its runway in 2012 AD and a successful test flight in 2019 AD. However, regular flights are yet to commence, with residents expressing disappointment due to the delay.
In Baglung Municipality, Balewa Airport, dormant since 2048, resumed operations briefly in 2018 but faced suspension due to low passenger numbers. Despite recent efforts to enhance infrastructure and operational viability, challenges remain, including high operational costs and limited road access.
The Palungtar Airport in Gorkha shows potential for becoming a flying training center, as suggested by Mayor Bivash Chintan. However, operational improvements are contingent upon overcoming infrastructure barriers, such as the completion of a 10 km road linking the Kali Gandaki corridor.
The historical context of these airports underscores their initial importance before road infrastructure developments reduced air travel demand. Future initiatives may focus on promoting activities like paragliding and skydiving, aiming to reinvigorate these airports as viable transportation hubs.
Efforts by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal and local municipalities reflect ongoing commitments to revive these airports, balancing infrastructural development with operational sustainability. Despite challenges, stakeholders remain optimistic about the potential economic and social benefits once these airports resume full operations.
