Nepal Airlines Starts Rescue Flights for Citizens in West Asia

The Government of Nepal has formally enabled Nepal Airlines to perform emergency rescue operations in West Asia from today, April 3, 2026. This move is due to the fact that tensions in the area are rising, which is complicating normal travel for a significant number of Nepali migrant workers.

Following a high-level meeting led by Foreign Minister Shishir Khanal, the national flag carrier has been directed to conduct special flights to ensure the safety and return of the stranded citizens.

Rescue Flight Schedule (April 3–5)

To help those affected by the suspension of regular air services (which have been on hold since February 28), the government has released the following special flight schedule:

• Kathmandu to Dubai (RA 229): Departed April 3 at 11:15 PM.
• Dubai to Kathmandu (RA 230): Scheduled for April 4 at 4:10 AM.
• Kathmandu to Dammam (RA 241): Scheduled for April 5 at 8:30 AM.
• Dammam to Kathmandu (RA 242): Scheduled for April 5 at 12:20 PM.

Why are these rescue flights happening?

The security situation in West Asia has worsened, causing the shutting down of multiple air routes. One Kuwait Airways flight was able to repatriate 291 Nepalis to the Gautam Buddha International Airport in Bhairahawa just this week. The government is now utilizing its national carrier to rescue those remaining in the Gulf area.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) thanked Nepal Airlines and the insurance companies for arranging these high-risk operations and supports the government in its efforts to safeguard its citizens overseas even amid this global crisis.

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