The government has announced plans to operate Gautam Buddha International Airport and Pokhara International Airport at full capacity. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal ‘Prachanda’ convened a high-level discussion today to explore strategies for maximizing the utilization of these national pride projects.
In a meeting held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar, Prime Minister Dahal engaged with stakeholders to discuss options and measures for achieving full operational capacity at both airports. According to the Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Hit Bahadur Tamang, the Prime Minister emphasized the strategic importance of these projects and the need for coordinated efforts among government bodies to ensure their full utilization.
Given the substantial state investment in these national pride projects, and the private sector’s involvement in developing tourism infrastructure, Prime Minister Dahal highlighted the necessity of operating these airports at full capacity. He directed the Ministry of Tourism and the Civil Aviation Authority to expedite concrete proposals for this purpose.
The Prime Minister also addressed the air traffic congestion at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, stressing the need for solutions. He emphasized preparing for flights to and from Bhairahawa and Pokhara to accommodate both migrant workers and other travelers. To facilitate this, essential government services such as labor approval, immigration, and medical checks need to be streamlined in Bhairahawa and Pokhara.
Additionally, Prime Minister Dahal proposed offering concessions on air tickets, ground handling, and aviation fuel to enhance airport operations. He urged coordination with the private sector to develop incentive packages for hotels and other services.
During the discussion, Tourism Minister Tamang stated that necessary groundwork is being undertaken to present concrete proposals for full-capacity operations. Dr. Ganesh Prasad Pandey, Secretary of the Ministry of Tourism, mentioned that options involving concessional packages are being discussed, and the ministry is engaging with foreign airlines to facilitate full-capacity operations at both airports.
The meeting included key officials such as Chief Secretary Dr. Baikuntha Aryal, Tourism Secretary Dr. Pandey, Commerce Secretary Dinesh Kumar Ghimire, Revenue Secretary Dr. Ram Prasad Ghimire, Labor Secretary Ghanshyam Upadhaya, and Director General of the Civil Aviation Authority Pradip Adhikari, among others.
