Flights Between India and Nepal Resume After Brief Suspension: Air India and IndiGo Lead the Way
Travelers between India and Nepal can now breathe a sigh of relief, as regular flight services are back on track. Both Air India and IndiGo, two of India’s largest carriers, will resume their scheduled flights to Kathmandu starting September 11, 2025. These flights had been temporarily halted due to security concerns in Nepal, but now operations are being fully restored, bringing stability to an important travel route in the region.
The Reason Behind the Suspension
The suspension of flights came after significant unrest in Nepal, specifically related to large-scale Gen Z protests in the capital, Kathmandu. In response to escalating security concerns, the Nepalese authorities made the difficult decision to shut down Tribhuvan International Airport, halting all international flights in and out of the country. Airlines, prioritizing the safety of passengers, chose to suspend their services to ensure no risks to travelers during this period of civil unrest.
Air India Steps In With Special Relief Flights
In the aftermath of the closure, Air India swiftly moved to assist stranded passengers. The airline operated special relief flights between Delhi and Kathmandu on September 10 and 11, offering passengers the opportunity to return to their homes or proceed with their travels. These flights were particularly essential for those left stranded due to the abrupt shutdown of services. Air India also confirmed that it will resume its regular scheduled flights to Kathmandu starting September 11, ensuring the continuity of travel between the two countries.
IndiGo Resumes Operations with Increased Frequency
IndiGo, known as India’s largest domestic airline, has also confirmed the restart of its Kathmandu services. From September 11, the airline will operate four daily scheduled flights to Kathmandu, providing much-needed travel options for passengers. Additionally, IndiGo will offer two special relief flights on the same day, pending regulatory approvals. These flights will be available at reduced fares, specifically designed to assist stranded travelers in returning to India. With this, the airline aims to make the journey home more affordable and accessible during the recovery phase.
Impact on Travelers
For thousands of passengers stranded on both sides of the border, the resumption of regular flight services is a welcome development. The uncertainty that had surrounded air travel between India and Nepal is now being replaced by the return of reliable flight options. The renewed services will allow travelers to continue their journeys without the extended delays that were previously expected.
Despite the positive news, both Air India and IndiGo have urged passengers to check the status of their flights before heading to the airport, as there may still be some minor adjustments in flight schedules depending on clearance from relevant authorities. With safety protocols and airport operations returning to normal, airlines are working diligently to ensure a smooth and safe experience for all travelers.
What the Resumption Means for the Region
The resumption of air services between India and Nepal marks the return of one of the region’s busiest international short-haul routes. This is particularly important for those traveling for business, tourism, or to reunite with family and friends. As the airlines restore their regular schedules, the travel options expand, providing more flexibility and convenience for passengers.
For Nepal, a popular tourist destination, the resumption of international flights will help boost tourism and ease the strain on travelers who were previously unable to reach the country. Nepal’s economy, which relies heavily on tourism, is expected to benefit from the return of direct air connections to India, one of its largest tourist markets.
A Path to Normalcy
The return of flights is not just about resuming travel; it symbolizes a step towards normalcy after a period of turbulence. The operational disruptions caused by the protests in Nepal had a ripple effect on the region’s aviation sector, but with security concerns now under control and the airport operational once more, the future looks promising for air travel between the two countries.
Air India has now joined IndiGo in resuming flights to Nepal, providing travelers with much-needed connectivity after a brief suspension due to security concerns in Kathmandu. This restart follows the reopening of Tribhuvan International Airport, offering a stable travel route once again.
The resumption of scheduled flights between India and Nepal brings a sense of relief to passengers who had been left in limbo due to recent disruptions. With both Air India and IndiGo now back on their regular schedules, travelers can look forward to a smoother journey across the border. While travelers are advised to stay updated on flight status, the restart of these key routes will undoubtedly contribute to a more efficient and dependable travel experience in the region. Whether for business, tourism, or personal reasons, the ability to reconnect with family and friends in Nepal and India is now more accessible than ever before.
Tags: Nepal, flights, India, IndiGo, Air India
