What is going in inside Tribhuvan International Airport actually?

Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) has been closing daily for 10 hours since November 9 to facilitate various construction projects as part of its expansion master plan. Approximately 30% of flights have been reduced to allow for this work.

Expansion Projects Underway

The airport’s operator, the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), has been working intensively on the expansion as per the master plan. The work adheres to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, which prohibit construction, material storage, or open trenches within 75 meters of the runway. Consequently, the airport closes nightly from 10 PM to 8 AM for construction within this sensitive area. The closure is expected to last until March.

Key Developments

1. Taxiways and Aprons:
   • The airport currently has one runway and a half-length parallel taxiway with five exit taxiways.
   • Under the plan, a full-length parallel taxiway and additional exit taxiways are being constructed.
   • A new apron on the north side will allow parking for up to 18 aircraft, improving capacity.
2. Terminal Buildings:
   • The current international terminal will be converted into a domestic terminal in the future.
   • A new international terminal building is planned, requiring relocation of Nepal Airlines and Nepali Army hangars.
3. Ongoing Work:
   • The first package includes construction of a Northern apron, parallel taxiways, and exit taxiways.
   • The second package focuses on building a Southern parallel taxiway with a 172.5-meter separation from the runway’s centerline, meeting ICAO standards.
   • The third package involves constructing additional taxiways and hangars East of the current terminal.

Nighttime Construction Process

During the 10-hour nightly closure, construction is focused within 75 meters of the runway. Any trenches dug during the night must be filled by morning to allow flight operations. Trenches up to 3 meters deep are excavated and partially filled overnight, with temporary measures ensuring runway usability.

Challenges and Timeline

The construction faces challenges such as:

• Monsoon rains, which hinder soil and foundation work.
• Labor shortages during festivals like Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath. The airport aims to complete all work within two years, with significant progress expected after the monsoon season.

Benefits Upon Completion

The expansion will increase the airport’s operational capacity:

• The parallel taxiway system will enhance runway efficiency by 20-25%.
• Aircraft parking capacity will increase, reducing delays caused by lack of parking space.
• Improved taxiway connections will allow simultaneous operations of large aircraft on both the runway and taxiways.
• Enhanced infrastructure will improve air traffic management and safety.

This ambitious project aligns with ICAO standards and is set to address the airport’s growing traffic demands while minimizing disruptions to its operations.