The Nepali community in the UK is one of Britain’s fastest-growing and most vibrant diaspora groups. There has long been a deep and enduring connection between the UK and Nepal, strengthened by the historic and continuing contribution of Nepali Gurkhas to the British Army. The community maintains strong family, cultural, and economic ties with Nepal. However, there are currently no regular direct commercial flights connecting London to Kathmandu. Travellers – including families, students, aid workers, and businesspeople – must undertake long and costly journeys with multiple layovers, often exceeding 14 hours in total travel time.

Establishing direct flights would:

✈️ Strengthen cultural and economic links between the UK and Nepal.

🤝 Support tourism and trade opportunities for both countries.

🌍 Enhance connectivity for thousands of British-Nepali families and reduce travel hardship for elderly and vulnerable passengers.

💚 Reduce the environmental impact of multiple connecting flights by allowing for more efficient travel.

We therefore urge the UK Government, the Department for Transport, and the Civil Aviation Authority to work collaboratively with British airlines and London airports – such as Heathrow, Gatwick, and Stansted – to explore and secure viable direct flight options to Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.

The introduction of direct flights would reflect Britain’s commitment to global connectivity, inclusion, and partnership, while delivering meaningful benefits to communities both in the UK and Nepal.