Himalaya Airlines inaugurates Kathmandu-Shanghai flight

Himalaya Airlines, a joint venture between Nepal and China, inaugurated the Kathmandu-Shanghai-Kathmandu flight on December 2. The first outbound flight, H9 780, departed from Tribhuvan International Airport at 09:50 hours (local time) and reached Shanghai Pudong International Airport, at 16:31 hours (local time), with a flight duration of 4 hours and 7 minutes. A total of 137 passengers along with an infant boarded the first flight.

The inaugural flight event was graced by the Xie Yu, Economic and Commercial Counsellor of the People’s Republic of China to Nepal as the chief guest along with Pratap Babu Tiwari, General Manager, Tribhuvan International Airport and with other dignitaries.Initially operating weekly flights on every Saturday effective December 02, 2023, the service will be increased to twice a week, on every Saturdays and Wednesdays, starting from December 20, 2023.

This historic event marked a significant milestone in Himalaya Airlines’ commitment to enhancing connectivity and promoting bilateral ties between Nepal and China, states the press release issued by the airline company. The new Kathmandu-Shanghai-Kathmandu route will offer passengers seamless travel options between the capital city of Nepal and the central coastal city of China, known for the country’s biggest city and a global financial hub. This direct link between the cities reflects Himalaya Airlines’ dedication in providing convenient, safe, and efficient travel, states the press release.

Vijay Shrestha, Vice-President of Himalaya Airlines said, “The longstanding aviation history shared by Nepal and China, spanning two decades since China initiated its inaugural passenger flights to Nepal. Over this extensive period, China has emerged as the leading contributor of airlines serving Nepal, with a total of six airlines from China operating alongside Himalaya Airlines.”

Tiwari congratulated Himalaya Airlines for the inaugural flight to Shanghai. “It is truly an exciting milestone for the airline and the airline’s commitment in providing outstanding service connecting passengers with new and diverse experience.” Tiwari wished the airlines all the success to spread their wings to new horizons and create more opportunities for travel and attract more Chinese Tourist to Nepal, connecting ties and relationship between the two nations.