Himal Press 
KATHMANDU: Himalaya Airlines, a joint venture between Nepal and China, operated its maiden flight on Kathmandu-Qingdao-Kathmandu on Sunday.
According to the airline, the new Kathmandu-Qingdao-Kathmandu route will offer passengers seamless travel options between the capital city of Nepal and the coastal city of China, known for its picturesque landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and economic significance. “This launch also reaffirms Himalaya Airlines’ dedication to providing convenient, safe, and efficient travel experiences for its passengers,” the airline said in a statement issued on Sunday.
The airline will operate flight to Qingdao once a week on Sundays. The first flight left Tribhuvan International Airport at 9:15 am with 113 passengers on board and reached Qingdao Jiaodong International Airport at 17:22 pm (local time). The flight duration is 5 hrs 50 mins, according to the airline.
Minister of Culture, Tourism & Civil Aviation, Sudan Kirati and Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Chen Song, along with dignitaries participated in a special function organized to launch the flight at TIA on Sunday.
“The launch of the Kathmandu-Qingdao-Kathmandu flight service is a testament to the growing collaboration between Nepal and China. It represents a new chapter in our bilateral relations, facilitating not only tourism and trade but also cultural exchanges and people-to-people connections,” Chinese ambassador Chen Song said, commenting on the new flight.
Likewise, Minister Kirati said the new flight not only enhances connectivity but also exemplifies the commitment to strengthening the bonds between Nepal and China.
Himalaya Airlines operates a fleet of three Airbus A320-214 and one Airbus A319-115.
