The Government of Nepal has approved the signing of a formal bilateral air services agreement with Saudi Arabia, marking another step toward strengthening aviation cooperation and improving air connectivity between the two countries. The decision was taken during a meeting of the Council of Ministers held at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers in Singha Durbar.
Strengthening Nepal–Saudi Aviation Links
The proposed agreement is expected to provide a formal framework for air services between Nepal and Saudi Arabia. It could help create a more structured environment for airlines from both countries to expand operations and explore additional air connectivity. Improved aviation links are particularly important for Nepal, where international air connectivity plays a major role in supporting tourism, trade, employment and people-to-people relations.
Potential Boost to Tourism and Economic Cooperation
Stronger air connectivity with Saudi Arabia could also create new opportunities for Nepal’s tourism sector. Easier and more reliable air access can encourage more visitors to travel between the two countries while supporting business travel and wider economic exchanges. For Nepal, expanding international air links remains important as the country seeks to diversify its tourism markets and attract visitors from different parts of the world. A formal air services agreement could therefore contribute to broader cooperation beyond aviation, including tourism and economic activities.
Japan Approves Major Grant for Airport Safety
Alongside the Saudi Arabia aviation agreement, the Cabinet also accepted grant assistance of approximately NPR 2.73 billion from the Government of Japan. The grant will be used to implement an air traffic control improvement project at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu.
Focus on Safer and More Efficient Air Traffic Management
The project is aimed at improving the airport’s air traffic control system, with a focus on strengthening aviation safety and operational efficiency. As Nepal’s main international gateway, Tribhuvan International Airport handles a significant share of the country’s international air traffic. Improvements to its air traffic management infrastructure are therefore important for maintaining safe and efficient aircraft movements as international connectivity continues to expand.
Aviation Infrastructure and Tourism Go Hand in Hand
Together, the two decisions highlight Nepal’s broader effort to strengthen its aviation sector, from expanding international air-service partnerships to improving the infrastructure supporting aircraft operations. For a tourism-dependent country, stronger international connectivity and safer, more efficient airports are essential foundations for welcoming more visitors and supporting the continued growth of Nepal’s tourism industry.
