Overview: Gautam Buddha International Airport
Gautam Buddha International Airport is a new international airport that is being constructed in Nepal. It is located in Bhairahawa, a city in the southwestern part of the country, near the Indian border. The airport is named after Gautam Buddha, who was born in nearby Lumbini over 2,500 years ago.
The airport is being built with the aim of boosting tourism and economic development in the region. It will be Nepal’s second international airport and will be able to handle up to 5 million passengers per year when fully operational. Construction started in 2015 and is expected to be completed by the end of 2020.
The project is being developed by Nepal’s Civil Aviation Authority in partnership with China’s Northwest Civil Aviation Airport Construction Group. The construction cost of the airport is estimated to be around $800 million, which is being funded by the Exim Bank of China.
Once completed, the airport will have a 3,000-meter runway, capable of handling wide-body aircraft such as the Airbus A330 and Boeing 777. The airport will also have a modern terminal building with state-of-the-art facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, and lounges.
Overall, the Gautam Buddha International Airport is an ambitious project that has the potential to transform the economy of the region by attracting more tourists and businesses. It is hoped that the airport will help to create jobs and stimulate economic growth in Nepal, while also improving connectivity with other countries in the region and beyond.
Terminals at Gautam Buddha International Airport
Gautam Buddha International Airport is the largest airport in Nepal and was recently opened in September 2019. The airport has a single terminal building which is divided into two levels – upper departures and lower arrivals.
The upper level of the terminal building serves all the departing flights while the lower level is for arriving passengers. The terminal building is designed to handle up to five million passengers annually.
The airport has several facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, lounges, prayer rooms, and a VIP lounge. The airport also has a separate section for security checks for both domestic and international passengers.
The airport is equipped with modern technology and state-of-the-art facilities such as automated baggage handling systems, self-check-in kiosks, and immigration counters that use biometric technology. The terminal building is also fully air-conditioned and has Wi-Fi access throughout the facility.
The airport also has plans to expand its terminal building in the future to accommodate more passengers as the number of visitors to Nepal increases. The expansion plan includes the construction of a second terminal building, which will be connected to the existing one.
In conclusion, Gautam Buddha International Airport’s terminal building is well-designed and equipped with modern technology and facilities to provide passengers with a comfortable and convenient travel experience. Its expansion plan will help meet the growing demand for air travel to Nepal and make the airport even more efficient and effective.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Gautam Buddha International Airport: Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Nepal Airlines, Air Asia, Himalaya Airlines, Indigo, and Qatar Airways.
Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines operate domestic flights to destinations such as Pokhara, Bharatpur, Bhairahawa, Janakpur, and Nepalgunj.
Nepal Airlines offers both domestic and international flights, with destinations including Delhi, Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, and Doha.
Air Asia operates flights to Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, while Himalaya Airlines provides international service to destinations such as Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Dammam.
Indigo offers direct flights from Kathmandu to major Indian cities such as Mumbai, Kolkata, and Delhi.
Qatar Airways operates flights to Doha, with connections to over 130 destinations worldwide.
It is important to note that there may be seasonal changes to destinations and flight schedules, so it is best to check with specific airlines for up-to-date information.
Transportation Options at Gautam Buddha International Airport
Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA) is the largest and busiest airport in Nepal. It is located about 27 km east of Kathmandu and serves as a major gateway to the country. If you are traveling to Nepal, it is important to know what transportation options are available at GBIA to get to your destination.
One of the most popular transportation options at GBIA is the shuttle service. Shuttle services are available at the airport 24/7 and can be easily booked online or at the airport. The shuttle service is an affordable and convenient way to get to your hotel or any other destination in Kathmandu. The shuttle service also operates to other major cities such as Pokhara, Chitwan, and Lumbini.
GBIA also offers car rental services for those who prefer to drive themselves. Car rental services are available at the airport and can be booked online or at the airport. Car rental services provide the freedom to travel at your own pace and explore the country on your terms.
Another transportation option at GBIA is the shuttle bus service. The shuttle bus service is a cost-effective way to travel to Kathmandu or other nearby cities. The shuttle bus service operates from the airport to various destinations in Nepal and is a great option for those who prefer public transportation.
In addition to these options, there are also train lines that connect GBIA to various cities in Nepal. Train lines operate from the airport to different parts of the country, making it an ideal option for those who want to explore Nepal by train.
Overall, Gautam Buddha International Airport offers a variety of transportation options to meet the needs of all travelers. Whether you prefer to take a shuttle, rent a car, ride a shuttle bus, or travel by train, there is an option available for you. So, book your tickets to Nepal and explore the beautiful country with ease!
Parking Options at Gautam Buddha International Airport
Gautam Buddha International Airport offers a variety of parking options to suit the needs of travelers. There are three parking lots available at the airport: short-term, long-term, and economy parking.
The short-term parking lot is located closest to the terminal building, making it a convenient option for those who will be at the airport for only a few hours. The rate for short-term parking is NPR 100 for the first hour and NPR 50 for each additional hour.
The long-term parking lot is located further away from the terminal building, but it offers more affordable rates for travelers who will be leaving their car at the airport for an extended period of time. The rate for long-term parking is NPR 500 per day.
The economy parking lot is the most affordable parking option at Gautam Buddha International Airport, with a rate of NPR 300 per day. This lot is located furthest away from the terminal building, so it’s recommended for travelers who have plenty of time to get to the airport.
Regardless of which parking lot you choose, all of them are well-lit and patrolled by security personnel to ensure the safety of your vehicle.
Check-In Procedures
Gautam Buddha International Airport offers various options for passengers to check-in, including online, self-service kiosks, and traditional methods.
Passengers who choose to check-in online can do so up to 24 hours before their scheduled departure time by visiting the airline’s website or mobile app. They can select their preferred seat, print their boarding pass or save it on their phone, and proceed directly to security upon arrival at the airport.
For those who prefer self-service kiosks, these are available throughout the terminal and allow passengers to check-in, select their seat, print their boarding pass, and even check their baggage. After completing the check-in process, passengers can head straight to the bag drop counter where they can hand over their luggage and proceed through security.
Passengers who prefer a more traditional check-in experience can still do so at the airport’s check-in counters. Here, airline staff will assist with the check-in process, provide boarding passes, and check any baggage that needs to be transported in the hold.
Regardless of the method chosen, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport in plenty of time before their scheduled departure time to allow for any unforeseen delays and ensure a stress-free journey. Gautam Buddha International Airport strives to provide a smooth and efficient check-in experience for all its passengers, regardless of the method chosen.
Security Procedures at Gautam Buddha International Airport
At the airport, be prepared to follow several security procedures before boarding your flight. You will need to pass through metal detectors and have your bags scanned.
Make sure that all liquids, aerosols, and gels in your carry-on bags are in containers that hold 3.4 ounces or less and that they fit into a single, clear plastic, quart-sized bag. You may also be asked to remove your shoes, belt, and jacket before passing through the metal detector.
To get through security smoothly, wear comfortable shoes that are easy to take off and put back on, and avoid wearing jewelry or clothing with metal clasps. Be polite and respectful to the security personnel and follow their instructions.
In the event that you are selected for additional screening, remain calm and patient. Security procedures are in place to keep everyone safe, so comply with the requests of the security officers. By following these tips, you can have a stress-free security experience at Gautam Buddha International Airport.
Customs and Immigration Process at Gautam Buddha International Airport
Upon arrival at Gautam Buddha International Airport, passengers must proceed to the immigration counter where their passports will be checked and stamped. Visitors must have a valid visa or visa-on-arrival letter before entering Nepal.
After clearing immigration, passengers proceed to the baggage claim area and then through customs. Passengers are required to declare any goods or items that they are bringing into the country, including currency exceeding USD 5,000.
Departing passengers must first check-in at their airline’s counter and then proceed to immigration for departure formalities. Passengers leaving Nepal are not allowed to carry certain items and should be aware of the restrictions before packing.
Overall, the customs and immigration process at Gautam Buddha International Airport is managed efficiently with courteous staff guiding passengers through each step.
Amenities:
– Duty-free shops
– Restaurants and cafes
– Lounges
– ATMs and currency exchange
– Free Wi-Fi
– Baggage storage
– Medical facilities
– Prayer rooms
– Children’s play areas
– Disabled facilities
Gautam Buddha International Airport provides a wide range of amenities to ensure the comfort and convenience of its travelers. Passengers can enjoy shopping at various duty-free shops or dine at the restaurants and cafes available within the airport premises. Lounges are also available for passengers who want to relax before their flight.
For banking needs, ATMs and currency exchange services are available throughout the terminal. Travelers can connect with loved ones using the free Wi-Fi provided by the airport. Baggage storage facilities are also available for those who need to store their luggage.
For emergencies, medical facilities are readily accessible and prayer rooms are available for those who need to fulfill their religious obligations. Children’s play areas are available to keep young travelers entertained, while disabled facilities are available to cater to passengers with special needs.
Accessibility Services: Facilities and Services for Passengers with Disabilities or Mobility Issues at Gautam Buddha International Airport
Gautam Buddha International Airport provides a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These include wheelchair assistance, accessible check-in counters, and hearing loops at all public areas.
Passengers with disabilities can request for special assistance when booking their tickets or upon arrival at the airport. The airport also has a dedicated team of staff trained in providing assistance to passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
Other accessible features at the airport include designated parking spaces, accessible restrooms, and elevators equipped with braille and tactile markings. In addition, signage throughout the airport is designed to comply with international accessibility standards.
The airport strives to ensure that all passengers have a comfortable and seamless travel experience, regardless of their abilities or mobility limitations.
Connecting Flights at Gautam Buddha International Airport
Connecting flights at Gautam Buddha International Airport can be stressful if you don’t plan ahead.
The airport has only one terminal, so you won’t have to rush between terminals.
However, the airport can be busy, so a little planning can go a long way in making your connection smooth.
Check your boarding pass for your gate number and departure time as soon as you arrive at the airport.
Give yourself enough time to get through security and reach your gate.
If you have to change terminals, follow the signs or ask for help.
Be aware of the distance between your arrival gate and departure gate, and plan accordingly.
If you’re cutting it close, let a gate attendant know and they may be able to help you board faster.
Remember that delays and cancellations can happen, so it’s always a good idea to have a backup plan in case you miss your connection.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
When arriving at Gautam Buddha International Airport, passengers should proceed to baggage claim after exiting the plane. They should locate their airline’s designated baggage carousel and wait for their luggage to arrive.
If a passenger’s luggage is not present or has been damaged during the flight, they should proceed to the airline’s customer service counter located in the baggage claim area. The passenger should report the missing or damaged luggage to an airline representative who will fill out a form and provide a tracking number for the report.
Passengers should retain their baggage claim tags and any other documentation provided by the airline until their luggage has been retrieved or replaced. If luggage is not found within a specified time frame, passengers may be eligible for compensation from the airline.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
At Gautam Buddha International Airport, medical facilities and emergency services are available for passengers’ safety and security. The airport has a well-equipped medical center that provides medical assistance to passengers in case of an emergency.
The airport also has a team of trained medical professionals, including paramedics and doctors, who provide immediate medical attention if required. In case of any medical emergency, passengers can dial the emergency number mentioned on the airport’s website or contact any airport staff for assistance.
The airport also has various emergency facilities like fire stations, rescue teams, and disaster management teams that are always ready to respond in case of any emergency. These facilities ensure the safety of all passengers and staff at the airport.
Hotel Accommodations
There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Gautam Buddha International Airport, providing comfort and convenience to travelers.
Some of the hotels near the airport include the Airport Hotel Greenwich Village, located just 1 kilometer away, the Hotel Mystic Mountain, which is around 3 kilometers away, the Airport Plaza Hotel, which is around 5 kilometers away, the City View Hotel, located around 7 kilometers away, and the Vivaan Resort, around 10 kilometers away.
All these hotels offer various amenities such as free Wi-Fi, comfortable rooms, 24-hour room service, and complimentary breakfast, providing a relaxing experience for travelers.
Useful Tips:
When travelling through Gautam Buddha International Airport, it’s helpful to know that the airport is located approximately 25km southeast of Kathmandu.
To get there, you can take a taxi or book a transfer in advance. It’s important to note that traffic in Kathmandu can be quite chaotic, so give yourself plenty of time to get to the airport.
Once you arrive, keep an eye out for signage directing you to the appropriate check-in counter. Make sure you have all necessary documents, including your passport and boarding pass, readily available.
Security at the airport can be quite strict, so be prepared to go through multiple security screenings. In order to speed up the process, avoid wearing clothing or accessories that may set off metal detectors, and make sure all liquids and gels are stored in containers no larger than 100ml.
Finally, take some time to explore the amenities at Gautam Buddha International Airport. There are a variety of restaurants and shops available, as well as a spa and a lounge area for premium passengers.
Contact Information
– Airport Information Desk: +977-1-4113033 or [email protected]
– Lost and Found: +977-1-4113033 ext. 1500 or [email protected]
– Customs: +977-1-4113033 ext. 1400 or [email protected]
– Immigration: +977-1-4113033 ext. 1300 or [email protected]
– Baggage Services: +977-1-4113033 ext. 1200 or [email protected]
For emergencies, dial 100 from any airport phone or contact airport security at +977-985-1025115.
Airports Near Gautam Buddha International Airport
Aside from the Gautam Buddha International Airport, there are several other airports in the vicinity that travelers may consider for alternative flight options or layovers.
- Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) – located 80km northeast of Gautam Buddha International Airport. It is the largest airport in Nepal and serves as the main international gateway to the country. Travelers can reach Tribhuvan International Airport via taxi or public transportation.
- Pokhara Airport (PKR) – located 106km northwest of Gautam Buddha International Airport. It is a domestic airport that primarily serves the city of Pokhara and the surrounding areas. Travelers can reach Pokhara Airport via taxi or public transportation.
- Bhairahawa Airport (BWA) – located 21km south of Gautam Buddha International Airport. It is a domestic airport that primarily serves the city of Bhairahawa and the surrounding areas. Travelers can reach Bhairahawa Airport via taxi or public transportation.
Please note that transportation options may vary depending on the airport and location. It’s always best to research and plan your transportation ahead of time to ensure a smooth travel experience.