Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Nepal’s only international airport, is set to extend its operational hours to 18 hours per day, starting April 1. The airport, which had been operating for only 14 hours daily due to ongoing maintenance work, will now remain open from 6 AM to midnight.
Previously, TIA functioned for 21 hours a day, but extensive renovation and infrastructure enhancement projects had led to a reduction in operating hours. Since November 9 (23 Kartik), the airport management had imposed a 10-hour closure per day to facilitate physical infrastructure development. During this period, airlines significantly increased their fares, citing limited flight slots as the primary reason.
Infrastructure Upgrades and Extended Operations
According to Tribhuvan International Airport’s General Manager, Jagannath Niraula, major improvements have been completed, allowing the airport to extend its operating hours. “Starting from April 1, the airport will be operational for 18 hours daily. The construction of the taxiway connecting the main runway has been completed, and work on the parallel taxiway is ongoing,” Niraula stated.
Despite ongoing construction, Niraula assured that flight operations would not be affected. However, he highlighted that certain types of construction work, such as those within 75 meters of the runway, could necessitate temporary flight suspensions. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) mandates strict safety protocols, including ensuring that no construction materials or obstructions are present in the immediate vicinity of aircraft landing and takeoff zones.
Impact on Airlines and Passengers
The extension of operational hours is expected to ease congestion and provide more flexibility for airlines. During the period of restricted operations, airlines had increased fares substantially due to the limited availability of flight slots. With the new schedule, passengers can anticipate improved scheduling options and potentially lower airfare rates.
Tribhuvan International Airport serves as Nepal’s primary aviation hub, accommodating both domestic and international flights. The ongoing infrastructure improvements aim to enhance the airport’s capacity, safety, and efficiency, aligning it with international aviation standards.
As Nepal continues to experience a surge in air travel, these developments at TIA are a crucial step toward bolstering the country’s aviation infrastructure and ensuring seamless connectivity for travelers.
