Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), Nepal’s main international gateway, has been closed indefinitely following escalating protests and security concerns in the Kathmandu Valley. The closure, effective since September 8, 2025, has led to the suspension of all domestic and international flights, stranding thousands of passengers and disrupting travel plans for tourists and residents alike.
The Nepali Army has been deployed to secure the airport, and authorities continue to assess the situation amid ongoing violence and curfews. Airlines serving Kathmandu have canceled or rescheduled flights, urging travellers to monitor official updates.
Airport Shutdown Amid Security Crisis
Tribhuvan International Airport’s closure was triggered by escalating political unrest and violent demonstrations across Kathmandu. Since September 8, youth-led protests against corruption and the controversial social media ban have intensified, resulting in fires near the airport and deteriorating security conditions.
According to airport authorities, this unprecedented situation compelled them to halt all operations to ensure the safety of passengers and airport staff. Smoke billowing near the runway and clashes between protesters and security forces made it unsafe for planes to land or take off. The Nepali Army’s deployment underscores the gravity of the crisis.
Representatives from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) have stated that the airport will remain closed “until further notice,” with no confirmed timeline for reopening. Both domestic airlines like Buddha Air and international carriers including Air India, IndiGo, and Qatar Airways have canceled scheduled flights, with many passengers left stranded at the terminals or unable to reach Kathmandu.
The Nepal Tourism Board is assisting affected travellers by organising free shuttle buses and coordinating with the Tourist Police to manage the situation.
Impact on Tourism and Travel
The airport closure comes at a critical time for Nepal, which is entering its peak tourism season. Autumn attracts thousands of international trekkers and mountaineers eager to explore the Himalayas and visit world-renowned destinations like Everest Base Camp and Annapurna Circuit. Tourism industry experts warn that continued closure could cause significant financial losses, with cancelled expeditions, hotel bookings, and support services. Local businesses dependent on tourist influxes are also facing uncertainty.
Additionally, the closure has strained alternate airports like Bhairahawa’s Gautam Buddha International Airport and Pokhara International Airport, which have limited infrastructure and capacity to handle international flights at scale. This has made it challenging to reroute passengers or cargo efficiently.
Travellers have expressed frustrations over sudden cancellations and lack of timely information. Airlines have issued travel advisories urging patience and flexibility, waiving rescheduling fees as they monitor the evolving situation closely.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The indefinite suspension of operations at Tribhuvan International Airport highlights the complex challenges faced by countries where political instability intersects with critical infrastructure safety. While the immediate priority must always be passenger and personnel safety, prolonged disruptions to transportation hubs can have far-reaching economic and social consequences.
Nepal’s situation serves as a poignant reminder of the need for robust, resilient infrastructure backed by proactive governance. Regional cooperation and investments in diversified aviation capabilities are essential to safeguard the livelihoods of millions dependent on steady connectivity.
