Sikkim-Pakyong Flights in Buddha Air's Pipeline

Flying High: Sikkim’s Skies to Welcome Buddha Air

Buddha Air is planning to introduce two daily flight routes: one from Kathmandu to Pakyong and the other from Kathmandu to Pakyong via Guwahati. The estimated duration of the Kathmandu to Pakyong flight is approximately one hour, while the flight from Pakyong to Guwahati is expected to take around 35 minutes.

A team representing Buddha Air recently conducted a comprehensive feasibility study at Pakyong Airport to assess the potential for commencing flight operations between Kathmandu and Pakyong. The visit encompassed a presentation by the Air Traffic Controller and a detailed airport tour led by Airport Director S.K. Singh. The team from Buddha Air comprised Uday Krishna Shrestha, Om Pradhananga, and Jiwan Basnett.

There are reports suggesting that the proposed ticket fare for the Kathmandu to Pakyong route will likely be between Rs. 6,000 and Rs. 7,000. However, there is a new proposal for Buddha Air to consider adjusting this range to Rs. 5,000 - Rs. 6,000. The airline is confident in the demand for these flights. Additionally, Buddha Air is seeking authorization for a new route from Janakpur to Ayodhya, in addition to their current operations from Kathmandu to Varanasi. The proposed schedule for the new flights is between 12 noon and 1:30 pm, and the aircraft, with the plate number "ATR 500," is designed to accommodate 85-90 passengers.