In a significant step towards improving passenger services, the “Passenger Help Desk” was officially inaugurated at the arrival hall of Tribhuvan International Airport. The program has been conducted by the District Hotel Entrepreneurs Association, Kathmandu, and this Passenger Help Desk has also been prepared by the same association. The inauguration ceremony witnessed the presence of distinguished government officials, industry leaders, and key stakeholders from the tourism and aviation sector.
Ceremony and Ribbon-Cutting by Tourism Minister
The inauguration ceremony was graced by the Honorable Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Mr. Badri Prasad Pandey, who formally cut the ribbon to mark the commencement of the new help desk. Minister Pandey highlighted the importance of the initiative, stating, “The Passenger Help Desk is a milestone in our ongoing efforts to make air travel in Nepal more convenient and welcoming for every visitor. This facility will not only provide immediate assistance but also enhance Nepal’s image as a hospitable and tourist-friendly nation.”
Other key dignitaries attending the event included Member of Parliament Mr. Nagendra Kumal, Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) Mr. Pradeep Adhikari, and General Manager of Tribhuvan International Airport Mr. Hansraj Pandey. The ceremony also saw participation from senior leaders of the hotel and tourism industry, including Mr. Sheru Thapa, Senior Vice President of Hotel Entrepreneurs Association Nepal, and Mr. Suresh Baral, President of District Hotel Entrepreneurs Association Kathmandu.
Vision for Enhanced Passenger Experience
Speaking at the event, Mr. Suresh Baral remarked, “The establishment of the Passenger Help Desk reflects a collaborative effort between the government and tourism stakeholders to ensure that every visitor receives prompt and effective assistance. This initiative is a testament to our commitment to professionalizing tourism services and supporting Nepal’s growing travel sector.”
The newly inaugurated facility aims to assist arriving passengers with information related to transportation, hotel bookings, tourism attractions, and general airport guidance. It is equipped with trained staff and modern technology to provide efficient support to both domestic and international travelers.
Support from Key Associations
Leaders from various hotel associations, including representatives from Kathmandu Hotel Entrepreneurs, Nepal Hotel Association, and the Air Transport Services Committee, emphasized the importance of the new facility. Their presence reflected the commitment of the private sector to work hand-in-hand with government authorities to improve airport service quality and promote Nepal as a preferred tourism destination.
Minister Pandey concluded the program by expressing gratitude to all the stakeholders involved, acknowledging the dedicated efforts of the construction and management teams in making the Passenger Help Desk a reality.
Suresh Baral, chairing the program, reiterated that the help desk is expected to become a model facility for other airports in Nepal, blending professional assistance with a warm hospitality culture. “This is a small step with a big impact. By ensuring that every traveler’s first experience is smooth and welcoming, we are not only serving our visitors but also enhancing Nepal’s image globally,” he said.
Collaborative Effort and Support
The inauguration ceremony acknowledged the contributions of multiple organizations, including the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, various hotel associations, and local tourism stakeholders who collectively supported the design, construction, and operational planning of the help desk. The airport management team, led by Mr. Hansraj Pandey, coordinated the operational readiness of the facility, ensuring that it meets international standards.
Minister Pandey also emphasized the importance of public-private cooperation, stating, “Partnerships between government bodies and private enterprises are crucial for developing world-class tourism infrastructure. The Passenger Help Desk is just one example of how such collaborations can enhance Nepal’s hospitality and service quality.”
The event concluded with a formal handover of the help desk keys to the operating committee, symbolizing the official transfer of management responsibilities. In his closing remarks, Minister Pandey thanked all participants, especially the CAAN team, hotel associations, and local tourism leaders, for their continuous support and dedication to the project. With this new facility, Tribhuvan International Airport strengthens its commitment to providing seamless services for travelers and reinforces Nepal’s position as a growing hub for international tourism.
