Regular Flights Suspended as Chaurjahari Airport’s Runway Gets Paved

Chaurjahari Airport has been closed for eight years, and regular flights have been suspended following the paving of its runway. Locals have expressed concerns over disruptions to trade and transportation due to the airport’s closure, stating they have been unable to access convenient air services. Nepal Airlines Corporation has relocated its office to Nepalgunj and is preparing to resume flights from next month.

April 10, Jajarkot – Located in ward number 1 of Chaurjahari Municipality, Rukum West, Chaurjahari Airport has remained completely closed for eight years. Established in 1971 (B.S. 2028), the airport used to operate regular flights on its unpaved runway, but these ceased after the runway was paved. The airport has been closed since 2020 (B.S. 2077).

With the paving of the runway, there had been expectations for increased flights, boosted commercial and tourism activities, and enhanced transport facilities. However, these hopes have not materialized, leaving local residents disappointed. The locals have described the closure of an airport developed with investments running into millions as an unfortunate event.

The area, once bustling with activity when planes arrived, has become quiet, affecting local business and trade, according to residents. The closure has particularly impacted citizens from Rukum, Jajarkot, Salyan, and Dolpa. Tej Bahadur Bishta, former president of the Chaurjahari Industry and Commerce Association, said that the citizens of Chaurjahari, which is rapidly developing as a new town, have lost access to convenient air services due to the airport’s closure.

He stated, “It is shameful that an airport constructed at a cost of millions of government budget is closed at a time when people seek easy and straightforward travel. The citizens have suffered due to the state’s inability to utilize such a valuable asset.”

Delbahadur Giri, administrator of Simen Chaurjahari Hospital, remarked that although there is potential for regular operations, the government has not paid sufficient attention. He emphasized the priority of properly using existing facilities. Giri criticized the airport’s closure on various pretexts after the runway was paved as irresponsible.

Currently, the airport area is overgrown with shrubs, and much of the equipment is non-functional.

Preparations are underway to resume flights at Chaurjahari Airport from July. Nepal Airlines Corporation has shifted its office to Chaurjahari. With the office moved to Nepalgunj for additional facilities, employee Surendra Nepali currently works at another nearby airport in the district, Salle.

Although the Civil Aviation Authority’s office and control tower are located close to the runway, there is a lack of long-term air traffic controllers, and the tower remains closed. While a police outpost exists to ensure airport security, it is also non-operational.

Previously, the regional Nepalgunj team of Nepal Airlines removed important equipment from the airport. Due to a shortage of aircraft and low passenger numbers, the office was relocated. Surendra Nepali, an employee at Salle Airport, said there is a possibility flights may operate from the upcoming July season.