Gautam Buddha International Airport Awaits Regular International Flights Amidst Business Concerns
Summary
Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa is still waiting for regular international flights, frustrating local businesses that invested heavily in tourism, hotels and transport around the project. The private sector says the lack of sustained air service is hurting returns, jobs and Lumbini’s tourism potential.
Key Points
- Regular international flights have yet to materialize at Gautam Buddha International Airport, despite the airport being completed years ago.
- Local businesses in Rupandehi say their investments in hotels, transport and tourism are at risk because the airport is not fully operational.
- Flydubai’s new daily Dubai-Pokhara service has raised hopes that Bhairahawa could also regain regular international connectivity.
- Airport officials say no immediate international flight schedule has been received, while businesses continue pressing the government for action.
