Nepal’s primary gateway to the world, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), has begun a significant infrastructure upgrade that will see the facility closed for 10 hours daily over the next five months. The closure, which started in 8th November 2024, marks a crucial phase in the airport’s modernization but raises concerns about its impact on Nepal’s tourism sector and broader economy.
The Upgrade Project: What’s Changing?
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has initiated the Rs 15 billion Air Transport Capacity Enhancement Project, which includes:
- Construction of a parallel taxiway
- Expansion of the international apron northward
- Extension of the hangar apron eastward
- Two parallel taxiway projects: a 1,140-metre stretch on the southern side and a 450-metre section on the northern end
During this period, the airport will suspend all operations from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM, a significant change from its previous schedule of 6:00 AM to 2:00 AM.
Economic and Tourism Implications
The timing of this closure has sparked debate among industry experts and stakeholders. Here’s why:
Tourism Impact
- The Nepal Tourism Board has revised its 2024 tourist arrival forecast down to 1.1 million from 1.3 million
- Trekking agencies expect to lose approximately 40% of trekkers during this period
- Major events in Kathmandu are being postponed or cancelled due to soaring ticket prices
- The closure coincides with peak tourism seasons
Economic Concerns
- Industry experts estimate potential losses of Rs 50 billion in airline and tourism revenues
- Airfare prices have increased up to four times for many destinations
- The hospitality sector, including hotels and restaurants, faces significant challenges
- Domestic airlines must reduce operations, affecting both revenue and government tax collection
Alternative Airports and Challenges
While Nepal has two other international airports – Gautam Buddha International Airport in Lumbini and Pokhara International Airport – several challenges exist:
- International airlines have shown reluctance to operate from these alternatives
- Technical and financial considerations limit their viability as immediate substitutes
- Some industry observers suggest the lengthy closure might be an attempt to redirect traffic to these newer facilities
Looking Forward
Once completed, the upgrade promises significant improvements:
- Increased capacity from 128,449 to 187,000 aircraft movements annually
- Maximum runway capacity of 42 aircraft movements per hour
- Enhanced safety standards and operational efficiency
Impact on Current Operations
For context, TIA’s current traffic includes:
- Over 200 domestic flights daily
- Approximately 100 international flights daily
- 8.7 million passengers handled in 2023 (4.54 million international, 4.15 million domestic)
What This Means for Travelers
If you’re planning to visit Nepal during this period:
- Expect higher ticket prices due to reduced flight availability
- Plan for possible schedule changes and limited flight options
- Consider booking well in advance to secure preferred flight times
- Be prepared for potential changes in arrival and departure times
The project is scheduled to continue until March 31, 2024. While the upgrades are necessary for long-term development, the short-term challenges pose significant questions about balancing infrastructure improvements with economic and tourism needs in developing nations.
FAQ
Q: When did the airport closure begin and how long will it last?
A: The closure began in November 8, 2024 and will continue for five months until March 31, 2025. During this period, the airport will be closed daily from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM.
Q: Why is Tribhuvan International Airport being closed?
A: The airport is undergoing a major Rs 15 billion Air Transport Capacity Enhancement Project, which includes constructing parallel taxiways, expanding the international apron, and extending the hangar apron.
Q: Is the airport completely closed during this period?
A: No, the airport is only closed for 10 hours daily (10:00 PM to 8:00 AM). It remains operational during the remaining 14 hours of the day.
Travel Impact
Q: How will this affect my travel plans to Nepal?
A: You can expect:
- Higher ticket prices due to reduced flight availability
- Modified flight schedules
- Possible changes in arrival and departure times
- Limited night flight options
- Need for advance booking
Q: Are there alternative airports I can use?
A: Yes, Nepal has two other international airports:
- Gautam Buddha International Airport in Lumbini
- Pokhara International Airport However, most international airlines currently prefer operating through Tribhuvan International Airport.
Q: Will domestic flights be affected?
A: Yes, domestic flights will see significant reductions. For example, Buddha Air, Nepal’s largest domestic carrier, will reduce its daily flights from 180 to 135.
Economic and Tourism Questions
Q: How will this affect tourism in Nepal?
A: The closure is expected to impact tourism in several ways:
- Reduced tourist arrivals (forecast adjusted from 1.3 million to 1.1 million for 2024)
- Higher travel costs
- Potential cancellation of some tourism events
- Approximately 40% reduction in trekking tourists
Q: What are the expected economic impacts?
A: The closure is estimated to:
- Result in around Rs 50 billion in lost airline and tourism revenues
- Affect related sectors like hotels, restaurants, and transport
- Impact government tax collection from aviation
- Cause significant increases in airfare prices
Practical Information
Q: What should I do if I’m planning to visit Nepal during this period?
A: You should:
- Book your flights well in advance
- Be prepared for higher ticket prices
- Check flight schedules carefully
- Consider traveling during daytime hours
- Stay in touch with your airline for any schedule changes
- Have flexible travel plans
Q: Will this affect visa processing or airport services?
A: Regular visa and airport services continue to operate normally during open hours. However, late-night arrivals and departures will not be possible during the closure period.
Project Details
Q: What improvements are being made to the airport?
A: The project includes:
- Building a 1,140-metre parallel taxiway on the southern side
- Constructing a 450-metre parallel taxiway on the northern end
- Expanding the international apron northward
- Extending the hangar apron eastward
Q: What are the expected benefits after completion?
A: The upgrades will:
- Increase annual aircraft movements from 128,449 to 187,000
- Allow up to 42 aircraft movements per hour
- Improve overall safety standards
- Enhance operational efficiency
- Provide better infrastructure for future growth
Emergency and Special Cases
Q: What happens in case of emergency landings during closure hours?
A: For emergency situations, the airport maintains contingency protocols. However, specific arrangements should be verified with airlines and airport authorities.
Q: Are there any exceptions to the closure timing?
A: While specific exceptions aren’t publicly detailed, critical or emergency flights may be handled on a case-by-case basis. Contact your airline or the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal for specific situations.
