AirAsia launches Kathmandu-Bangkok flights, re-enters Nepal market after five years

AirAsia, the Malaysian airline, is set to launch new nonstop flights connecting Kathmandu, Nepal, to Bangkok, Thailand. This will be AirAsia’s return to Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu after a five-year break.

Starting October 2, 2024, the airline will operate flights to Don Mueang Airport in Bangkok four times a week: on Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday.

This new route signifies AirAsia’s entry into the Nepalese market.

Santisuk Klongchaiya, CEO of Thai AirAsia, highlighted the strategic importance of this move, noting that Nepal is a popular destination for both Thai travelers and international visitors.

“AirAsia is always looking to expand its network, and Nepal is one of the most popular not only among Thai travelers but also visitors from across the globe,” said Santisuk Klongchaiya, CEO of Thai AirAsia.

“This is a region with tremendous growth potential for tourism, trade, and business purposes. The latest route will be of benefit to both regions,” he added.

To attract passengers, AirAsia has introduced a promotional fare for the Kathmandu to Bangkok route. Tickets are priced at ₹9,990 under this special offer, which is valid for travel between October 2, 2024, and March 28, 2025.

The promotional booking period runs from August 12 to August 25. This offer is intended to draw passengers, given Bangkok’s popularity as a destination among Nepali travelers.

The promotional tickets can be purchased via the AirAsia Move app, AirAsia’s partner Universal Tours and Travels, or at any AirAsia agency. For those not using the promotional offer, standard ticket prices for this route start around ₹24,000.

With the introduction of the Kathmandu route, AirAsia will expand its South Asian network to include 16 destinations. The airline already operates flights to Indian cities such as Jaipur, Bengaluru, Lucknow, Kolkata, Chennai, Kochi, Gaya, Ahmedabad, Guwahati, Visakhapatnam, Tiruchirappalli, and Hyderabad. It also operates in Dhaka, Colombo, and the Maldives, totaling 87 flights a week.

Additionally, on August 9, 2024, Indonesia AirAsia announced a new route from Bali to Hong Kong. This service will commence on October 1, 2024, and will be offered on a daily basis.