KATHMANDU, Dec 9: The number of passengers on international flights from Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) in Bhairahawa has been increasing. GBIA Spokesperson Deepak Kumar Bajracharya reported that airlines operating direct international flights from GBIA are steadily experiencing a rise in passenger numbers.
Bajracharya refuted rumors of occupancy challenges at the airport, stating, "I am not aware of the circulating rumors, but the number of passengers on direct international flights from the airport is gradually increasing. While it takes time for passenger numbers to grow, airlines operating direct flights are witnessing consistent improvements."
Currently, four international airlines operate from GBIA. Jazeera Airways operates three weekly flights, while Thai AirAsia operates one flight after merging its originally scheduled two weekly flights. Bajracharya explained, "Thai AirAsia has merged its flights in a way that ensures convenience for passengers and operational ease for the airline."
Calibration flights at GBIA from today
By November 30, Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) recorded notable passenger numbers across various airlines. Jazeera Airways operated 10 flights, bringing in 1,154 passengers and carrying 1,637 outbound passengers. Fly Asia conducted five flights, bringing in 72 passengers and carrying 375 outbound passengers. Nepal Airlines operated 10 flights, serving a total of 18 passengers. Similarly, Fly Dubai conducted 22 flights, bringing in 895 passengers and carrying 115 outbound passengers. Overall, 78 international flights operated from GBIA during this period, with 2,533 passengers arriving and 2,238 departing.
Despite reports of low occupancy and high fare rates on some routes, Bajracharya asserted that GBIA’s performance compares favorably to flights landing in Kathmandu. He described the passenger numbers on direct international flights as "satisfactory."
GBIA has gained prominence as an alternative airport due to upgrade work at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. With TIA closing for 10 hours daily for construction, some airlines have shifted operations to GBIA. However, Qatar Airways, which initially operated flights from the airport, has suspended its services. Qatar Airways completed 38 touchdown flights, serving only 93 passengers in one month.
Stakeholders emphasize the need to improve GBIA’s infrastructure to increase its viability as an international hub. Suggestions include establishing a visa center, medical testing facilities, better manpower arrangements, and streamlined labor approvals. These improvements, they argue, will enhance the airport’s role as both a labor and tourist destination.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has granted full exemptions on aeronautical and non-aeronautical charges to encourage airline operations at GBIA. Despite these measures, the lack of adequate passenger services and facilities remains a barrier to its growth.
GBIA holds significant potential not only as a labor destination but also as a tourist gateway. Bajracharya believes that with clear government support and effective implementation of facilitation measures, the airport can become a dynamic hub for international flights. Stakeholders are urging the government to prioritize the airport’s development and tap into its dual potential for tourism and labor migration.
