After a temporary halt caused by the recent Gen-Z protests, Cathay Pacific Airways has resumed its daily flights between Hong Kong and Kathmandu. The airline restarted operations on Ashwin 22 (October 8), deploying a widebody aircraft with 310-passenger capacity to operate the route.
Impact of Flight Suspension on Tourism and Travelers
The suspension of flights for 15 days affected nearly 9,000 passengers, including Nepali and foreign tourists traveling to destinations such as the United States, Australia, and Japan. Many travelers faced additional expenses due to the disruption, and several hotel bookings were canceled as tourists were unable to complete their planned trips.
The decision to suspend flights was prompted by an incident on Bhadra 24 (September 9), when members of Cathay’s crew staying at the Hyatt Hotel were reportedly harassed by protesters during the Gen-Z movement. Safety concerns escalated further when some protesters, including recently released prisoners, reportedly looted police weapons, creating a high-risk environment for airline staff. During the suspension, Cathay maintained aircraft readiness by keeping pilots and cabin crew on standby onboard to minimize operational disruptions while ensuring crew safety.
Resumption of Flights and Tourism Boost
According to Abit Shrestha, Airport Operations Manager at Cathay Pacific’s Kathmandu office, the decision to halt flights earlier was strictly based on security considerations. Now, with conditions stabilized, the airline has resumed daily flights, signaling a return to normalcy for international air travel in Nepal.
Deepkaraj Joshi, CEO of the Nepal Tourism Board, welcomed the resumption of flights, stating, “Cathay Pacific restarting its Nepal route is a very positive sign for tourism. Tourist arrivals had dropped by around 40 percent during the protests, but now the market is gradually returning to its usual rhythm.”
Positive Reception Among Travel Industry Stakeholders
Travel industry professionals have expressed optimism over Cathay Pacific’s return, highlighting increased competition in ticketing and more options for travelers. Shyam Raj Thapaliya, Managing Director of Osho World Travel Nepal, said, “The resumption of Cathay flights provides relief for passengers, helps reduce ticket prices, and boosts revenue for airports, the government, and ground handling companies.” With Cathay’s return, travelers now have expanded choices for international flights, reinforcing Nepal’s accessibility to global destinations.
International Airlines Operating in Nepal
Currently, 27 international airlines operate flights to and from Nepal, including Nepal Airlines, Himalaya Airlines, and Buddha Air, which also conduct international operations. The resumption of Cathay Pacific flights further strengthens Nepal’s connectivity and is expected to support the revival of the tourism sector, particularly as the country enters the peak post-Dashain travel season.
Outlook for Tourism Recovery
Tourism officials and travel operators see Cathay’s flight resumption as a key step in restoring tourist confidence in Nepal. The airline’s return is expected to facilitate smooth travel for international visitors, encourage higher tourist arrivals, and bring stability to Nepal’s aviation sector.
With the improvement in security and the normalization of international air services, travel agencies and hoteliers anticipate a gradual recovery in bookings, helping the country regain momentum after the temporary disruption caused by the protests.
