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Three Airlines Review Flight Operations at Gautam Buddha International Airport

Three Airlines Review Flight Operations at Gautam Buddha International Airport

At Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa, three international airlines currently operating regular flights have taken varying decisions regarding their operations. While two airlines have committed to continuing their services, one airline has decided to suspend flights temporarily for a month.

Following reports from FlyDubai (UAE), Jazeera Airways (Kuwait), and Thai AirAsia citing weather-related challenges, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) initiated a discussion on Monday led by its Director General, Pradeep Adhikari.

After deliberations, Thai AirAsia and Jazeera Airways agreed to maintain regular operations at Bhairahawa. Thai AirAsia, however, will reduce its weekly flights from three to two while exploring possibilities to resume the third. FlyDubai announced a suspension of flights from December 16, 2024, to January 13, 2025, citing low visibility due to dense winter fog. However, it assured resumption with daily flights starting January 14, 2025, with ticket bookings already open.

Low visibility, often reaching only 1,200 meters during the winter season, has posed challenges for flight operations at Bhairahawa. The required visibility for large aircraft is at least 1,800 meters. The lack of an advanced Required Navigation Performance Authorization Required (RNP AR) system has further complicated operations under such conditions.

CAAN revealed that the RNP AR system would be globally recognized at Bhairahawa Airport starting December 12, 2024. Once operational after a 42-day preparation period, it will enable flights even with visibility as low as 800 meters, significantly improving airport reliability.

Currently, FlyDubai, Jazeera Airways, Thai AirAsia, and Nepal Airlines are the only carriers operating at Bhairahawa. Qatar Airways had ceased its operations from the airport as of November 30, 2024, after providing prior notice.

The introduction of the RNP AR system and the commitment of airlines to adapt to Bhairahawa’s operational challenges aim to ensure better connectivity and reliability for both domestic and international travelers.

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