Japan will provide Nepal with a grant of approximately Rs 2.77 billion to significantly upgrade the air traffic management facilities at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. The initiative aims to rehabilitate the ageing control tower and modernise key aviation systems to enhance safety, efficiency, and operational reliability.
The funding was formalised through a note exchange between Japanese and Nepali officials, underscoring Japan's ongoing support for Nepal’s infrastructure and aviation sectors. The project is critical given TIA’s challenging environment, situated amidst mountainous terrain with rapidly changing weather conditions, making reliable air traffic control systems indispensable for safe flight operations.
The upgrade will involve refurbishing the control tower and renewing vital building systems such as power supplies, HVAC, and fire protection, alongside modernising communications, navigation, and surveillance systems according to ICAO standards. Training programs will be conducted to ensure sustainable operations and maintenance of the upgraded facilities.
Such improvements are expected to bolster Nepal’s aviation safety infrastructure, ensuring better management of aircraft movements especially during emergencies, such as recent floods. The enhancements will also improve the resilience of airport infrastructure against earthquakes and climate risks, which are pertinent concerns in the region.
The modernisation project is anticipated to benefit Nepal’s tourism, trade, and overall connectivity by ensuring continuous and reliable airport operations. This effort emphasizes the long-standing partnership between Nepal and Japan in promoting aviation safety and economic development. As 2026 signifies 70 years of diplomatic relations, the initiative reflects the commitment of both nations to mutual growth and disaster resilience in Nepal’s critical infrastructure sectors.
