The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has announced the suspension of VIP lounge facilities at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) until further notice. Airport officials confirmed the decision through a public notice displayed at TIA on Wednesday.
According to the authority, all passengers, regardless of status, will now be required to depart and arrive through regular passenger routes. The move aims to ensure fairness and prioritize ordinary travelers stranded in Kathmandu and other major cities due to the recent crisis.
Priority Given to Stranded Passengers
An official from the aviation authority explained that the decision was made in response to the unusual situation in the country, where thousands of general passengers were experiencing difficulties reaching their destinations.
“By temporarily suspending VIP lounge services, we can manage resources more effectively and give priority to normal passengers who have been facing difficulties. This step will help normalize the overall situation,” the source stated.
The closure means that diplomatic dignitaries, government officials, and high-profile individuals who previously used the exclusive lounge must now go through the same process as ordinary travelers.
Flights Operating Normally at TIA
Despite the suspension of VIP services, airport operations have returned to normal. Regular domestic and international flights are currently departing and arriving as per schedule, TIA officials confirmed.
Hansraj Pandey, the General Manager of Tribhuvan International Airport, reassured travelers that flight operations were continuing smoothly. “All passengers are being handled through regular channels, and both arrivals and departures are taking place without disruption,” he said. Airlines operating from TIA have also welcomed the decision, noting that it helps streamline passenger management at a time when smooth coordination is critical.
Effort to Restore Normalcy
The temporary suspension of VIP facilities is being viewed as part of broader measures to restore order at Nepal’s only international gateway. In recent days, a surge in passengers had led to overcrowding in certain areas of the airport. By closing the VIP lounge, officials aim to reduce unnecessary division between passenger groups and focus resources on those most affected by travel disruptions.
A senior official noted: “This is not a permanent measure. Once the situation stabilizes, VIP lounge services will be reopened. But for now, the priority must be the smooth movement of ordinary passengers.”
Reaction from Travelers and Stakeholders
The decision has received mixed reactions from stakeholders. While some VIP travelers expressed inconvenience, most passengers and tourism-related businesses welcomed the move, saying it reflects a sense of equality and urgency during the current crisis.
Travel agencies, in particular, said that focusing on general travelers was the right step. A Kathmandu-based operator stated: “Many tourists and citizens were stuck in the Valley, waiting for clarity. The airport’s decision to give equal treatment to all travelers is a positive message.” Tourism associations also suggested that the move will boost confidence among ordinary passengers, especially those who felt neglected in recent weeks.
Nepali Army Supporting Passenger Flow
The Nepali Army continues to assist with the movement of passengers, particularly those holding valid flight tickets. Security personnel are ensuring that travelers reach TIA safely, with special transport arrangements in place amid ongoing restrictions in some areas of Kathmandu Valley. This coordination, along with the suspension of VIP facilities, is expected to reduce congestion and ensure timely check-ins at the airport.
Looking Forward
The suspension of VIP lounge services at TIA highlights the government’s emphasis on fairness, equality, and efficiency in managing air travel during challenging times. While the restriction may inconvenience certain high-profile travelers, officials stress that it is a temporary necessity to serve the broader public interest.
With flights now operating on a regular schedule and priority given to stranded passengers, the situation at Tribhuvan International Airport appears to be stabilizing. Once conditions return to normal, authorities are expected to reinstate VIP services and other premium facilities. For now, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal is urging all passengers to follow the updated procedures and cooperate with officials to ensure smooth travel experiences.
