1st February 2025, Kathmandu
Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) will now operate 16 hours daily, extending its previous 14-hour schedule. The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) announced that the airport will remain open from 7 AM to 11 PM, increasing flight operations by 15%.
TIA Kathmandu Extended Hours
The expansion follows the completion of key structural work within 75 meters of the runway. The upgrade aims to improve efficiency, reduce congestion, and accommodate up to 10 million passengers annually.
Reduced Nighttime Closures
Until now, TIA was closing for 10 hours nightly (10 PM to 8 AM) to facilitate renovation work. From today, the closure will be reduced to eight hours (11 PM to 7 AM), allowing more flights.
The airport is undergoing major infrastructure improvements, including the construction of new taxiways, aircraft parking areas, and hangars. Due to ongoing work, some flights have been rescheduled, while 33% of operations have been diverted to Bhairahawa.
CAAN aims to complete construction within 75 meters of the runway by March 31 (Chaitra 18). Currently, 40% of the total expansion work has been finished.
Increase in Flight Operations
With extended operating hours, an estimated 5% increase in domestic flights and 10% more international flights is expected.
Previously, TIA handled 220 domestic and 78 international flights daily. With additional hours, domestic flights could rise to 290, while international flights may reach 100 per day. Airlines are adjusting their schedules, and some have requested rescheduling to original time slots.
Major Infrastructure Upgrades Underway
The airport’s eastern section is developing hangars for Nepal Airlines, Yeti Airlines, and Saurya Airlines. The expansion project aims to enhance efficiency and improve overall passenger experience.
“The work near the runway is 60% complete, and full operations should resume before March 31,” said CAAN Assistant Spokesperson Gyanendra Bhul.
Long-Term Development Plans
Three major projects are currently in progress, with 40% of the work completed. The expansion began in May 2020 and is scheduled to finish by February 2026. The estimated cost for the entire project is NPR 15 billion.
With these upgrades, TIA is preparing to handle growing air traffic, improve passenger convenience, and enhance Nepal’s aviation sector. The additional operating hours will help reduce delays and support the country’s increasing demand for air travel.
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