PM Oli Holds High-Level Discussion on Full Operation of Pokhara and Bhairahawa Airports

Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli convened a high-level meeting on Friday to discuss the full-fledged operation of the regional international airports in Pokhara and Bhairahawa.

During the discussion at the Office of the Prime Minister and Council of Ministers, PM Oli inquired about the current flight pressure and passenger management at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). He emphasized the need to operate both regional international airports at full capacity soon.

PM Oli instructed ministers to create an environment conducive to ensuring regular international flights from Pokhara and Bhairahawa airports. He noted that addressing the concerns of international airlines interested in these airports would allow the government to schedule and move forward with their operations.

Highlighting the significant losses caused by the underutilization of the two international airports, PM Oli urged ministers to take the matter seriously. He pointed out that TIA is handling more flights and passengers than its capacity, which could be alleviated by the smooth operation of the new airports.

The Prime Minister directed concerned officials to submit plans for the effective operation of both airports, including immigration and other facilities. He also mentioned the potential need to relocate fuel depots if they are too close to the airports. PM Oli assured that the Cabinet would ease the situation if problems were shared in a timely manner.

The meeting was attended by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Finance Bishnu Prasad Paudel, Foreign Minister Dr. Arzu Rana Deuba, Minister for Labour and Employment Sharat Singh Bhandari, Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey, among others.