A Himalaya Airlines flight originating from Lhasa, Tibet, and bound for Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) was diverted to Pokhara International Airport on Monday due to adverse conditions and technical considerations.
According to airport officials, the decision to divert the flight was made after unusual circumstances, including heavy smoke and other hazards around Kathmandu Valley, were deemed to pose serious risks to aviation safety. The smoke was observed in multiple areas surrounding TIA and along the approach routes, significantly reducing visibility and creating potential hazards for aircraft operations.
Safety Concerns Around Tribhuvan International Airport
The TIA office stated that dense smoke, particularly near the airport perimeter and in the designated landing corridors, raised significant safety concerns. The combination of limited visibility and potential operational risks prompted air traffic control to advise the aircraft to avoid landing in Kathmandu.
Spokesperson Rinji Sherpa of Tribhuvan International Airport confirmed that the flight from Lhasa had been instructed to hold over Simara airspace for an extended period before the diversion decision was finalized. “Given the unpredictable conditions and potential threats to safe landing, we advised the aircraft to divert to Pokhara International Airport, which had clear weather and operational readiness,” Sherpa explained.
Presence of Chinese Passengers on Board
The Himalaya Airlines aircraft was reported to be carrying several Chinese nationals, although the exact number of passengers has not been disclosed. Airport authorities have assured that all passengers and crew are safe and have been provided with necessary assistance upon arrival in Pokhara.
Himalaya Airlines is coordinating with both the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and ground handling teams in Pokhara to arrange onward travel for the passengers once conditions in Kathmandu improve.
Pokhara International Airport’s Role as an Alternative Landing Site
Pokhara International Airport, which became operational in January 2023, has increasingly been used as an alternate landing site for flights unable to reach Kathmandu due to weather, technical, or security-related reasons. Its modern infrastructure and relatively uncongested airspace make it a viable diversion option for both domestic and international carriers.
In this incident, Pokhara’s operational readiness allowed for a smooth and safe landing of the diverted aircraft. Ground staff quickly facilitated passenger disembarkation, customs clearance, and temporary arrangements while awaiting further instructions from the airline.
Continuing Disruptions at TIA
This diversion is part of a broader disruption affecting flights at TIA in recent days due to unusual circumstances, including public unrest in Kathmandu Valley and multiple reports of fires near key infrastructure. Thick plumes of smoke south of the airport have been identified as a primary factor impacting visibility and flight safety.
Several other international flights have also been put on hold in nearby airspace, with some rerouted to alternative airports in the region. Domestic operations have been largely suspended as authorities continue to assess the evolving situation.
Official Statement on Flight Safety
TIA spokesperson Sherpa reiterated that the top priority remains passenger and crew safety. “We understand the inconvenience caused to travelers, but safety cannot be compromised. Our decision-making is based solely on real-time assessments of operational risks,” he said.
Himalaya Airlines, in a separate statement, acknowledged the disruption and expressed its gratitude to passengers for their patience and understanding. The airline confirmed it is working closely with aviation authorities to ensure the earliest possible resumption of normal services.
