The ongoing situation in the Gulf region that has affected the travel plans of many Nepali citizens, Himalaya Airlines has begun operating special flights from Dubai to facilitate the safe return of Nepali nationals to their homeland. The airline started these special operations on March 8, 2026, aiming to assist Nepalis who were unable to travel due to disruptions in regular flights and the evolving circumstances in the region.
The airline stated that it has been working closely with the Government of Nepal and relevant authorities to ensure that affected Nepali citizens can return home safely and in a timely manner. By coordinating with airport authorities, diplomatic missions, and other stakeholders, Himalaya Airlines has been able to arrange flights to help stranded passengers reach Nepal without unnecessary delays.
First Special Flight Operated on March 8
According to the airline, the first special flight under this arrangement was operated on March 8, 2026, on the Kathmandu–Dubai route. The special flights were introduced primarily to assist Nepali travelers who were unable to return due to interruptions in regular flight services.
Since the beginning of the operation, the airline has continued to manage both special and regular services in order to support Nepali passengers. At present, Himalaya Airlines has been operating one regular daily flight on the Kathmandu–Dubai sector, while also arranging special flights when required to handle the additional passenger demand.
Over 700 Nepalis Returned So Far
From the start of the rescue initiative on March 8 until now, the airline has already operated five special flights, bringing 765 Nepali citizens back to Nepal from Dubai. The flights have helped many migrant workers, students, and travelers who were affected by the challenging circumstances in the Gulf region.
Officials from the airline said that the rescue efforts are part of the company’s commitment to support Nepali citizens during difficult situations. The airline has assured that it will continue monitoring the situation closely and will coordinate with concerned authorities to provide necessary assistance if further flights are required.
Himalaya Airlines has also requested passengers to stay updated through its official website and social media platforms, where the airline regularly publishes updates, travel advisories, and information related to special flight operations.
Coordination with Government and Stakeholders
The airline expressed its appreciation to the Government of Nepal, aviation authorities, diplomatic missions, and partner organizations that supported the operation of these special flights. Their cooperation played an important role in ensuring the smooth coordination required for such rescue efforts.
According to the airline, ensuring passenger safety and maintaining reliable air connectivity during challenging circumstances remains a key priority. By working closely with all stakeholders, the airline has managed to organize these special services while maintaining safety and operational standards.
About Himalaya Airlines
Himalaya Airlines Pvt. Ltd. is an international airline established in 2014 as a Nepal–China joint venture. The company was formed with the primary objective of strengthening people-to-people connections between Nepal and other countries, while also supporting Nepal’s tourism and trade sectors.
The airline is a partnership between Tibet Civil Aviation Development and Investment Company Limited and Yeti World Investment Pvt. Ltd. Since its establishment, Himalaya Airlines has steadily expanded its network and services, connecting Nepal to several important destinations across Asia and the Middle East.
Currently, the airline operates a fleet of four aircraft, including three Airbus A320-214 aircraft with 180 economy seats each and one Airbus A319-115 aircraft with 144 economy seats. Through these aircraft, the airline provides passenger services to major destinations in the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bangladesh, and China.
International Recognition and Safety Commitment
Himalaya Airlines has also gained recognition in the aviation sector for its operational and safety standards. In 2017, during its first year of operation, the airline received the South Asian Travel Award (SATA) as the Leading New International Airline in South Asia.
In 2020, the airline achieved ISO 9001:2015 certification for its technical management system, recognizing its strong standards in aircraft maintenance and engineering services. Later, on December 29, 2021, the airline received another ISO 9001:2015 certification, becoming the first airline in Nepal to receive the certification covering flight training services, passenger services, and cargo operations.
Further strengthening its safety measures, Himalaya Airlines installed Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs) on its aircraft in September 2021, becoming the first and only Nepali airline to equip its fleet with this life-saving medical device.
The airline also achieved another milestone on December 28, 2023, when it became Nepal’s first and only airline to be certified as an EASA-approved operator and a registered member airline, further demonstrating its commitment to international aviation standards.
With its focus on safety, reliability, and on-time performance, Himalaya Airlines aims to position itself as a trusted carrier for passengers traveling to and from Nepal, while continuing to contribute to the development of the country’s aviation, tourism, and international connectivity.
