Kathmandu: The government has announced plans to operate the Gautam Buddha (Bhairahawa) International Airport and the Pokhara International Airport at full capacity. Prime Minister Pushpa Kamal Dahal 'Prachanda' held a high-level discussion with relevant stakeholders on Friday to address this objective.

Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Hit Bahadur Tamang, reported that the Prime Minister emphasized both airports as projects of national pride and strategic importance. He highlighted the necessity for coordination among government entities to ensure their full-fledged operation.

The Prime Minister proposed involving the private sector in the operations of these airports, where the state has already made significant investments. He directed the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, along with the Civil Aviation Authority, to develop a comprehensive plan for the airports' full utilization.

Addressing the issue of air traffic congestion at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, PM Dahal suggested that preparations be made to facilitate the boarding of passengers traveling abroad for employment and other purposes directly from Bhairahawa and Pokhara. He also stressed the importance of providing government services, such as work permits, immigration, and medical facilities, at these airports.

To support the full operation of the airports, the Prime Minister proposed offering subsidies on air tickets, ground handling, and aviation fuel. He also called for a subsidized package in hotel services through coordination with the private sector.