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Kathmandu,Nepal: In a strategic move to enhance Nepal's position in the international aviation market, the Nepal Oil Corporation (NOC) has implemented significant price cuts for aviation fuel at two key regional airports. This decision, aimed at attracting more international flights to Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa and Pokhara International Airport, marks a pivotal shift in the country's approach to air travel infrastructure.
The price reductions, ranging from $76 to $91 per kiloliter, represent a substantial 10.6% decrease at Bhairahawa and an 8.8% cut at Pokhara. This aggressive pricing strategy is expected to make these airports more competitive and attractive to international carriers, potentially leading to increased flight frequencies and new route opportunities.
The move is part of a broader government initiative to revitalize Nepal's civil aviation sector, as outlined in the recently approved action plan by the Council of Ministers. By making regional airports more economically viable for airlines, Nepal aims to decentralize its international air traffic, which has historically been concentrated at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu.
This fuel price adjustment could have far-reaching implications for Nepal's tourism industry, potentially opening up new gateways for international visitors to access popular destinations like Lumbini and the Annapurna region more directly. It also signals Nepal's commitment to developing its aviation infrastructure beyond the capital, which could lead to more balanced regional development and economic growth.
As these changes take effect, industry observers will be watching closely to see how international airlines respond and whether this move will successfully drive the desired increase in air traffic to these regional hubs.
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