KATHMANDU: With Dashain festivities beginning, air travel within Nepal has surged.

Tribhuvan International Airport reports high demand for both domestic and international flights. Currently, 167 domestic flights are scheduled for today.

Despite adverse weather reducing Wednesday’s 141 planned flights to 135, favorable conditions this morning have allowed operations to continue smoothly.

Private airlines like Buddha Air and Shree Airlines report increased passenger loads, especially on routes to Pokhara, Bhairahawa, and Bharatpur.

Shree Airlines notes that limited road access due to landslides has contributed to higher demand for air travel, a trend expected to continue until Sunday.

Domestic flights now total over 340 daily, while international flights exceed 110 per day, with more passengers arriving from abroad.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) is facilitating airlines to ensure smooth travel during major festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath.

CAAN also emphasized the need for policy measures to stabilize fares amid rising fuel costs.