Kathmandu: The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has announced a significant expansion of commercial flight operations at Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) in Bhairahawa.
Thai AirAsia, making its return to Nepal after a five-year absence, has been authorized to commence four weekly flights from GBIA. In addition, the airline will operate three weekly flights from Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. This marks a substantial increase in connectivity for the region.
Sources at CAAN revealed that Thai AirAsia has been diligently meeting its financial commitments, including a monthly payment of Rs 125 million, to support its operations. Since February, the airline has been consistently making these payments as part of its efforts to clear outstanding dues.
The CAAN is also looking to further enhance Bhairahawa’s role in regional connectivity by approving additional airlines for the route. Universal Travel, the General Sales Agent (GSA) for Thai AirAsia, will oversee the new flights, which will provide direct links between Bangkok and both Kathmandu and Bhairahawa.
This development is expected to significantly boost religious tourism and support labor migration, particularly benefiting the Buddhist community and workers seeking opportunities abroad. The enhanced flight services are anticipated to improve travel options and provide a substantial boost to the local economy.