Airport operations at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) were severely affected on Tuesday due to disruptions caused by the ongoing GEN-Z protests. The Airline Operators Association of Nepal (AOA) has confirmed that passengers who were unable to board their scheduled flights due to Tuesday’s disruption at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) will be entitled to full refunds from their respective airlines. The announcement comes in the wake of the closure of the country’s only international airport, which was forced by ongoing protests led by the GEN-Z movement.
Flight Operations Suspended
According to AOA, all flight services were suspended from 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, affecting both domestic and international routes. The airport shutdown, which is expected to last until 12 noon on Wednesday, resulted in the cancellation of numerous flights, leaving passengers stranded and causing widespread disruption to travel plans.
The closure has not only affected passengers but also airlines and tourism operators, who rely heavily on reliable air connectivity to maintain schedules and operations. The temporary halt in flights has underscored the vulnerability of Nepal’s aviation sector to social unrest and highlighted the need for coordinated crisis management measures.
Refunds and Passenger Assistance
The AOA has assured affected travelers that they can claim refunds directly from the concerned airlines. In its official statement, the association emphasized that all airlines operating from TIA are committed to ensuring that passengers receive full compensation for the canceled flights.
Airlines have also been instructed to provide additional assistance to passengers, including guidance on rebooking options and alternative travel arrangements. While the unexpected disruption has caused inconvenience, the association emphasized that passenger safety and compliance with regulatory directives remain top priorities.
Efforts to Minimize Disruption
In its communication, the AOA highlighted that airline operators are working tirelessly to minimize the impact of the disruption. Ground staff, customer service teams, and airline officials have been mobilized to assist passengers at the airport, providing information on refunds, rescheduled flights, and other support services.
The association has also coordinated with airport authorities and government agencies to monitor the situation closely and ensure a smooth resumption of services once the airport reopens. Officials stressed that regular updates would be provided to passengers through official channels to reduce confusion and uncertainty.
Impact on Domestic and International Travel
The suspension of flight services at TIA has affected not only domestic travelers but also international passengers arriving or departing from Nepal. Business travelers, tourists, and pilgrims scheduled to fly on Tuesday were among those directly impacted by the closure.
Tourism operators have expressed concern over the potential economic impact of such disruptions, especially during peak travel seasons. The halt in flights has created challenges for tour operators, hotel bookings, and other services that rely on timely air transport.
Safety and Security as Priority
While the suspension has caused temporary inconvenience, authorities have reiterated that safety and security are paramount. The airport closure was implemented to prevent any escalation of risks associated with the ongoing protests, ensuring that passengers, staff, and aircraft remain secure.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has been closely coordinating with airline operators, law enforcement agencies, and airport management to determine the earliest safe time for resuming flight operations.
Coordination and Communication
Airlines have been urged to maintain open communication with passengers regarding flight status, refund procedures, and travel alternatives. The AOA stressed the importance of relying on official updates rather than rumors circulating on social media, which could cause unnecessary confusion among travelers.
Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for detailed instructions on refund claims and potential rebooking options. Airlines have committed to handling requests promptly to ensure that passengers receive timely assistance.
Looking Ahead
As the situation stabilizes and TIA prepares to reopen at noon on Wednesday, airlines are expected to gradually resume normal operations. Priority will likely be given to rescheduling domestic flights and essential international routes to reduce backlogs and assist stranded travelers.
The disruption serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by Nepal’s aviation sector in times of social unrest. Industry stakeholders have emphasized the importance of preparedness, coordination, and rapid response mechanisms to ensure minimal disruption and maintain public confidence in air travel.
The Airline Operators Association of Nepal’s assurance of full ticket refunds aims to provide relief to passengers affected by Tuesday’s unexpected airport closure. While the disruption caused significant inconvenience, coordinated efforts by airlines, airport authorities, and government agencies are focused on restoring normal operations swiftly and safely. Passengers are advised to stay informed through official channels and avail themselves of the assistance being provided to ensure a smooth resolution of travel disruptions.
