Indian Airlines Resume Flights to Kathmandu After Nepal Unrest Ends

Post by : Mumtaaz Qadiri

After a period of disruption due to unrest in Nepal, Indian airlines are resuming normal flight operations to Kathmandu. Tribhuvan International Airport, the main airport in Nepal, reopened on Thursday after being temporarily closed on Tuesday and Wednesday. The reopening allows travelers to fly in and out normally.

Flight Cancellations and Security Concerns

Earlier in the week, airlines including Air India, IndiGo, Air India Express, and SpiceJet had to cancel flights due to security concerns and restricted airport operations. Many Indian passengers were stranded in Kathmandu as curfews and restrictions imposed by the Nepal Army prevented them from returning home.

Special Flights for Stranded Passengers

To help those stranded in Nepal, the Indian government coordinated with airlines to operate additional special flights. Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu confirmed that Air India and IndiGo would run extra flights alongside their regular services. These measures were taken to quickly bring travelers back to India safely.

Air India Operations

Air India announced special flights on Wednesday and Thursday to assist stranded passengers. The airline confirmed that normal scheduled flights would resume from Thursday onwards. Air India also thanked the government and other supporting agencies for helping manage the situation.

IndiGo’s Response

IndiGo stated that its operations to and from Kathmandu had resumed. The airline will operate additional flights in the coming days to manage the backlog caused by the airport closure, ensuring that affected passengers can return home efficiently.

Government Guidelines on Fares

The Indian government advised airlines to maintain reasonable fare levels for the additional flights. This step ensures that passengers are not overcharged during the period of disruption and receive fair treatment while traveling home.

Flexibility From Airlines

Air India Express offered passengers the option to reschedule flights up to 17th September 2025 without any extra fees or fare differences. Those who prefer to cancel their bookings are eligible for full refunds. SpiceJet and Air India Express also confirmed that their flights beyond Thursday would not be affected, allowing travelers to plan confidently.

Background: Nepal Unrest

The unrest in Nepal followed the resignation of Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli amid massive anti-government protests. The Nepal Army imposed nationwide restrictions, including curfews, to prevent violence during demonstrations. These measures led to the temporary closure of Tribhuvan International Airport, affecting both domestic and international flights.

Impact on Passengers

The airport closure caused confusion and delays for hundreds of travelers. Families, tourists, and business passengers were stranded in Kathmandu, facing uncertainty about their return home. Emergency arrangements by airlines and coordination with the Indian government have now helped stabilize the situation.

Support for Travelers

Passengers affected by the disruption were offered flexible options, including free rescheduling and refunds. Additional flights from Air India and IndiGo are expected to return most stranded travelers to India within a few days. These measures have helped ease travel challenges caused by the unrest.

Airline Responses Summarized

• Air India: Operating special flights on Wednesday and Thursday; normal operations resume from Thursday.

• IndiGo: Additional flights arranged; regular services resumed.

• Air India Express: Free rescheduling or refunds for flights affected up to 17th September.

• SpiceJet: Operations affected on Tuesday and Wednesday; flights beyond Thursday remain unaffected.

Coordination With Government

The airlines emphasized their cooperation with the Indian government and other authorities. This coordination ensured that passenger safety and convenience were prioritized during this challenging time.

Stabilizing Travel Between India and Nepal

As the situation in Nepal improves, Indian airlines are returning to their regular schedules. Travelers can now expect smooth flight operations between India and Kathmandu. Airlines continue to advise passengers to check for updates and follow travel advisories issued by both Indian and Nepalese authorities.

Importance of Quick Response

The reopening of flights and additional services highlights the importance of government and airline coordination during crises. Quick and organized actions ensure that stranded passengers can return home safely and minimize disruption to travel plans.

Ensuring Passenger Safety

The measures taken by airlines included extra flights, flexible booking options, and reasonable fares. These efforts demonstrate the importance of supporting passengers during emergencies, ensuring they can travel safely and without undue stress.

Positive Step Toward Normalcy

The reopening of Tribhuvan International Airport marks a positive step for normal air travel between India and Nepal. Passengers can now plan trips with confidence as airlines resume regular operations, easing the disruption caused by unrest.

Lessons from the Crisis

The recent political unrest in Nepal caused temporary travel challenges. However, effective coordination between Indian authorities and airlines demonstrates how travelers can be supported during emergencies. Passengers are encouraged to stay informed and follow official updates to ensure a safe and smooth journey home.

With additional flights, flexible bookings, and government guidance, most stranded passengers are expected to return to India safely. Airlines remain committed to monitoring the situation in Nepal and ensuring that all travelers receive necessary support during and after the period of disruption.

Indian Airlines Flights, Kathmandu Airport Reopening, Nepal Travel Disruption