KATHMANDU: The national airline of Thailand, THAI Airways International, has officially declared its plans to resume direct flights between Kathmandu and Bangkok. This marks a significant return for the airline to Nepal, where it first began its service in 1968 with a flight from Bangkok via Calcutta to Kathmandu. However, due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, THAI Airways had suspended its services in March 2022.

On October 29, 2023, THAI Airways resumed its operations in Nepal, appointing Society International Travel Services as its General Sales Agent. Initially, the airline operated its flights using Airbus 320 narrow-body aircraft. Responding to positive passenger feedback, THAI Airways increased its services, adding a second daily flight starting December 15, 2023.

Currently, THAI Airways operates a diverse fleet, including Airbus 320 narrow-body aircraft, 777 aircraft, Dreamliner 787, and Airbus 350 aircraft, serving over 60 destinations worldwide. These aircraft are renowned for their comfortable seating configurations and extensive in-flight entertainment options. Passengers can also benefit from THAI Airways' mobile application, which facilitates flight bookings and provides access to its Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) services.

Khun Wit Kitchathorn, director of sales at THAI Airways International, emphasized the significance of reconnecting Nepal with Thailand and the global community through the relaunch of direct services between the two capitals. Rabi Chandra Singh, executive chairman of the Society International Travel Services and group chairman of the RR Group of Companies, highlighted Nepal's appeal as a destination known for cultural immersion and stunning natural beauty, expressing the commitment to delivering seamless travel experiences for passengers between Nepal and Thailand.

In 2024, THAI Airways operates with a fleet of 73 active aircraft, with an average utilization of 12.8 hours per day. The airline has strategically managed slot time for flight operations to meet the increasing demand from passengers and enhance connectivity between destinations, as stated in a press release issued by THAI Airways.