Tikapur Airport in Kailali, which had been closed for regular operations since February 1997, officially resumed flight services today, marking a historic moment for the region’s connectivity.
Tara Air’s flight YT 1701, carrying 16 passengers, landed at Tikapur Airport at 1:44 PM, signifying the start of regular flight operations. This achievement was made possible through the coordinated efforts of Tikapur Municipality, Tara Air, and Yeti Airlines, with strong support from local tourism businesses and stakeholders.
Flight Schedule and Services
The airport will host flights every Sunday and Thursday on the Kathmandu-Nepalgunj-Tikapur and Tikapur-Nepalgunj-Kathmandu routes. Passengers will travel from Kathmandu to Nepalgunj via Yeti Airlines, and Tara Air will provide connecting flights to Tikapur. A one-way fare for the Kathmandu-Tikapur route has been set at NPR 9,000.
Pathil Holidays has been appointed as the authorized sales agent for ticket bookings, with outlets at Siddhartha Hotel in Tikapur, Tinkune in Kathmandu, and through other travel agencies.
History and Future Plans
Originally inaugurated on October 11, 1984, Tikapur Airport’s reopening marks a new chapter in regional development. Mayor Ram Lal Dagora Tharu of Tikapur Municipality credited this revival to the efforts of various individuals and organizations, including Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, and Minister of State Arun Kumar Chaudhary.
Minister Arun Chaudhary pledged further improvements to the airport, including plans to introduce direct flights between Kathmandu and Tikapur. Additionally, the gravel-based runway is slated for an upgrade as regular flights continue.
Boost to Regional Connectivity
The resumption of services is expected to significantly benefit residents of Kailali, Surkhet, and Bardiya, who previously depended on flights from Dhangadhi and Nepalgunj. Local tourism businesses anticipate a boost in economic activity, and the initiative is seen as a step forward in enhancing regional transportation and tourism.
This milestone reinforces Tikapur’s potential as a regional hub, promising improved access and growth for the region.
