The reason for closure of the airport is the major renovation and upgrade of the runway. The current 3 km runway was built in 1980 and since then has never been renovated. Some sections of the runway reportedly feature holes and are in need for repairing. Besides, the runway is likely to be extended to accommodate larger aircraft to meet the increasing travellers arrivals from around the world.
The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) reports that the renovation work should be completed within a three months period. During renovation, changes in flight schedules are possible.
Currently, over 30 international airlines operate to and from Tribhuvan International Airport connecting Nepal to different destinations in Asia and the Middle East. It also serves as a hub for several Nepalese airlines, including Nepal Airlines, Yeti Airlines, and Himalaya Airlines among others. Daily some 400 flights depart from and land at Tribhuvan International Airport, including 100 international flights.
Nepal's Airport to Close for 10 Hours Daily
News in Asia
Nepal's only international airport, Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu Vallay, will close daily for 10 hours effective from April 1 till June 30, 2019. The closing period is from 8 am till 10 pm local time.