KATHMANDU: THAI Airways International, the national flag carrier of Thailand, on Thursday made an official announcement about the resumption of its direct flights to Nepal.

Issuing a statement on Thursday, THAI Airways said it had commenced its service to Nepal in 1968 through a flight from Bangkok to Kathmandu via Calcutta.

This half-a-century-long journey of connecting Nepal to the world, and bringing the world to Nepal came to a halt in March 2022 due to the COVID pandemic, the company added.

The halt was lifted on October 29, 2023 by appointing Society International Travel Services as the General Sales Agent in Nepal but the announcement was made only on Thursday.

Within one and half months of resuming flights in Nepal, the response to THAI Airways from Nepal was so good that the company decided to start the second daily flight on December 15 last year, said the company.

Khun Wit Kitchathorn, Director of Sales at THAI Airways International said, “THAI Airways International is honored to announce the relaunch of our direct service between Kathmandu and Bangkok. This significant milestone marks our enduring commitment to reconnecting Nepal with Thailand and the broader world. Since we first began our service to Nepal in 1968, our journey has been one of fostering cultural and economic exchanges, and we are delighted to resume this vital link.”

Currently, THAI Airways operates Airbus 320, (narrow-body aircraft) in Nepal.

THAI Airways currently operates Airbus 320 narrow body aircraft, 777 aircraft, Dreamliner 787, and Airbus 350 aircraft in more than 60 destinations. These aircraft are known for offering comfortable seating configurations and in-flight entertainment options, added the statement.

According to the airliner, customers can install THAI Airways’ mobile application to find convenient flights, and get access to the Royal Orchid Plus (ROP) services.

The statement added that THAI airways has a total of 73 active aircraft with an average utilization of 12.8 hours per day.

Rabi Chandra Singh, Executive Chairman of Society International Travel Services and the Group Chairman of the RR Group of Companies, stated, “We are thrilled to resume our direct flights from Kathmandu to Bangkok. Nepal has always been a popular destination for travelers seeking cultural immersion and breathtaking natural beauty. This relaunch signifies our commitment to providing seamless and enjoyable travel experiences for passengers flying between Nepal and Thailand.”

THAI Airways further said that the relaunch of direct service in Nepal is a commitment to strengthening its presence in the South Asian region.

“The airline looks forward to welcoming more Nepali travelers with the warmth of Thai hospitality,” the statement added.