Nepalgunj–Delhi direct flights are not a new concept. An all-party discussion held in Kathmandu today emphasized the urgent need for the Government of Nepal to initiate talks with India for the resumption of direct flights between Nepalgunj and Delhi. The meeting was organized by the Nepalgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry, bringing together representatives from political parties, civil society, and related sectors.
Participants highlighted that a Nepalgunj–Delhi direct air connection would significantly contribute to the country’s overall economic growth. They urged the government to take the matter seriously and to place it as a priority agenda during Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli’s imminent visit to India.
Previous Attempt and Suspension of Service
The direct flight between Nepalgunj and Delhi was first launched in 2018 by Buddha Air. However, operations were halted just one month after the service began when Indian authorities failed to provide a landing and take-off slot at Delhi airport.
Since then, local representatives from Banke, Bardiya, and other western regions have consistently demanded the reinstatement of the service. According to officials familiar with the matter, the Indian side has also expressed interest in the resumption of the flights, recognizing the mutual benefits.
Experts noted that security concerns on the Indian side had been one of the primary reasons behind the suspension. They suggested that Nepal should address these concerns and assure India of its commitment to maintaining security standards, possibly through high-level assurances from the Prime Minister himself.
Broad Political and Local Support
The discussion saw participation from Members of Parliament representing western Nepal, as well as local government officials. Among the attendees were MPs Sanjay Gautam, Dr. Dhawal Shumsher Rana, Shakti Bahadur Basnet, Surya Dhakal, Maheshwar Jung Gahatraj, Deepa Sharma Rupakheti, Laxmi Tiwari, Shanti Chaudhary, Shobha Gyawali, Javeda Khatun, Asha Bk, and Abdul Khan.
These lawmakers expressed full support for the initiative, stating their readiness to work collectively to make the project a reality. Sanjay Gautam underscored Nepalgunj’s strong geographical, cultural, and economic potential, calling the direct flight a “vital milestone for development.” Abdul Khan emphasized that Nepalgunj should be developed as a leading hub for tourism promotion in western Nepal.
Dr. Dhawal Shumsher Rana went further, saying, “The day the Nepalgunj–Delhi direct flight begins will mark a turning point for Karnali and Sudurpaschim provinces.” Similarly, Shakti Bahadur Basnet pledged complete support for necessary infrastructure development and policy facilitation.
Economic and Tourism Potential of Western Nepal
Nepalgunj and the surrounding western regions hold significant economic opportunities, particularly in tourism, herbal medicine, agriculture, and energy development. Direct connectivity to Delhi would not only boost tourism but also create new avenues for trade and investment.
Mayor Prashant Bista of Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan City stated that the flight would enhance cross-border people-to-people ties and encourage economic cooperation. Chandra Dhakal, President of the Federation of Nepalese Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FNCCI), and former FNCCI President Bhawani Rana also spoke in favor, highlighting the positive impact on both nations’ economies.
Deepak Raj Joshi, Chief Executive Officer of the Nepal Tourism Board, underlined the tourism benefits, noting that western Nepal boasts unexplored natural destinations that could attract both domestic and Indian tourists.
Mutual Benefits for Nepal and India
Experts at the meeting stressed that the Nepalgunj–Delhi direct flight would not be beneficial solely for Nepal. It would also serve Indian interests, particularly in boosting cross-border trade, medical tourism, and cultural exchange. The route could serve as an alternative gateway to remote western Nepal, making it easier for Indian tourists to access regions like Rara Lake, Bardiya National Park, and the Karnali River basin.
Furthermore, stakeholders noted that the revival of the flight could strengthen bilateral relations by demonstrating practical cooperation in trade and connectivity, areas both governments have repeatedly identified as priorities.
Need for Coordinated Effort and Government Leadership
Nepalgunj Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Tanka Bahadur Dhami emphasized the necessity of collective effort. “Resuming the direct flight requires coordination among political leaders, the private sector, and the government,” he said. Dhami urged the government to approach the issue with urgency during Prime Minister Oli’s India trip, leveraging the visit as an opportunity to secure India’s formal commitment.
Participants in the discussion called for the inclusion of direct flight resumption in the official bilateral agenda, stressing that securing Delhi airport slots should be a top diplomatic priority. They also urged the government to ensure that necessary aviation, security, and infrastructure requirements are fulfilled in advance to avoid a repeat of the 2018 setback.
A Turning Point for Regional Development
Stakeholders concluded that the resumption of Nepalgunj–Delhi flights could be a transformative step for the economic and social development of western Nepal. Improved air connectivity would not only enhance tourism and trade but also integrate the region more closely with national and regional markets.
With strong political consensus, growing demand from both sides of the border, and clear economic benefits, the call for action has become louder than ever. The upcoming India visit by Prime Minister Oli presents a timely opportunity for Nepal to push forward this long-standing demand. If successful, the direct flight could mark the beginning of a new chapter in Nepal–India connectivity, delivering shared prosperity and strengthening people-to-people bonds between the two neighbors.
