Nepalgunj Airport is a key travel hub in Nepal’s Lumbini Province. It serves the city of Nepalgunj and the surrounding Banke District. The airport code for Nepalgunj Airport is KEP.
This code is used by airlines and travellers to identify the airport. KEP is the IATA code, while VNNG is the ICAO code. These codes help with flight bookings, baggage tracking, and air traffic control.
Nepalgunj Airport plays a big role in Nepal’s air travel network. It is the second largest airport in Nepal by land area. The airport can handle planes from the Nepalese Army Air Service. There are plans to upgrade it to an international airport in the future.
Category | Details |
---|---|
ICAO | VNNG |
IATA | KEP |
Airport Type | Civil |
Suitable for Private Aircraft and Charter Flights | Yes |
In-flight Catering | Available through approved service providers |
Slots | Not required for general aviation flights under normal circumstances |
Landing Permit | Obtain landing permission from the airport prior to arrival |
CIQ (Customs, Immigration, Quarantine) | Available for international arrivals and departures |
FBO (Fixed Base Operator) | FBO services available including fueling, ground handling, and passenger services |
VIP Lounge | Not specified in the provided search results |
Visas | Check visa requirements with the relevant embassy or consulate before travel |
Parking | Aircraft parking is available on the apron. Vehicle parking is available near the terminal. |
Hangar | Hangar space may be available through prior arrangement with the airport |
Airside Access | Obtain landing permission from the airport before arrival |
Fuel Availability | Proper identification and permissions are required for airside access |
Noise Abatement Procedure at Night | Follow any noise abatement procedures communicated by ATC |
ATC Restrictions or Significant NOTAMs | Jet A-1 and Avgas are likely available |
Airport Overview
Nepalgunj Airport serves as a key transportation hub in western Nepal. It boasts important aviation codes and infrastructure to support domestic flights.
Location and Area
Nepalgunj Airport is located in Nepalgunj Sub-Metropolitan Municipality, Banke District, Lumbini Province. The airport sits in the Terai region of Nepal, near the Indian border.
Its IATA code is KEP, while its ICAO code is VNNG. These codes help identify the airport in global aviation systems.
The airport’s elevation is not specified in the available information. However, its location in the flat Terai region suggests a relatively low elevation compared to Nepal’s mountainous areas.
Infrastructure and Capacity
Nepalgunj Airport has an aerodrome reference code of 3C. This code indicates the airport’s ability to handle certain aircraft types and sizes.
The airport mainly serves domestic flights. However, there are plans to upgrade it to an international airport. This would involve adding immigration, customs, and quarantine facilities.
As a major hub after Kathmandu, Nepalgunj Airport plays a crucial role in Nepal’s air transport network. It connects western Nepal to other parts of the country.
The airport’s financial data shows its operational scale. In the 2072/073 fiscal year, it reported an income of 34,095,002.33 NPR and expenses of 51,537,995.69 NPR.
Operational Details
Nepalgunj Airport has a single runway and essential navigational aids. The facility operates during daylight hours and can handle various aircraft types.
Runway Specifications
The runway at Nepalgunj Airport is designated as 08/26. It measures 1,505 meters (4,938 feet) in length and 30 meters (98 feet) in width.
The runway surface is asphalt concrete, suitable for most domestic aircraft operations. Its elevation is 518 feet (158 meters) above mean sea level.
This configuration allows the airport to accommodate regional and short-haul flights effectively.
Navigational Information
Nepalgunj Airport’s ICAO location indicator is VNNG, while its IATA code is KEP. These codes help pilots and air traffic controllers identify the airport.
The airport’s reference point coordinates are 28°06’06″N latitude and 081°39’59″E longitude. This information is crucial for flight planning and navigation.
Fuel services are available at the airport, provided by Nepal Oil Corporation. This allows aircraft to refuel before continuing their journeys.
The airport operates from 6:00 AM to 6:45 PM local time, with slight variations based on the season.
Airline and Passenger Services
Nepalgunj Airport offers a range of services for airlines and passengers. The airport handles domestic flights and provides basic amenities for travelers.
Airlines Operating
Several airlines serve Nepalgunj Airport. Buddha Air and Yeti Airlines are two major carriers that operate regular flights. These airlines connect Nepalgunj to other Nepali cities like Kathmandu.
Nepal Airlines also flies to this airport. Most planes used are small to medium-sized aircraft suited for domestic routes. The ATR 72 is a common aircraft type seen at Nepalgunj Airport.
Flight schedules vary by season and demand. Travelers should check with airlines for the most up-to-date information on routes and times.
Passenger Amenities
Nepalgunj Airport provides basic amenities for passengers. The terminal building has a waiting area for departing and arriving travelers. There are restrooms and some seating available.
A small cafe serves snacks and drinks. Passengers can buy basic travel items at a shop in the terminal. The airport has check-in counters where airline staff assist travelers.
Security screening is in place for all flights. Luggage handling services are available for checked bags. The airport tries to make travel comfortable, but amenities are limited compared to larger airports.
Nearby Airports and Accessibility
Nepalgunj Airport has the IATA code KEP. It’s the main airport serving Nepalgunj and the surrounding area.
Several other airports are located near Nepalgunj:
- Surkhet Airport (SKH): About 37 miles north of Nepalgunj
- Chaurjahari Airport: Approximately 53 miles from Nepalgunj
Nepalgunj Airport is easily accessible from the city center. It’s about 4.8 miles northeast of Nepalgunj, making it convenient for travelers.
Getting to the airport is straightforward. A 15-minute drive is usually sufficient to reach Nepalgunj Airport from the city.
For those coming from farther away, the nearby airports offer additional travel options. They provide alternatives if flights to Nepalgunj are unavailable or inconvenient.
The proximity of these airports enhances the region’s connectivity. It gives travelers more flexibility in their travel plans to and from Nepalgunj.
Frequently Asked Questions
Nepalgunj Airport has several important codes and details that travelers should know. Here are answers to common questions about the airport’s location, airlines, and codes.
What is the full form of KEP in the context of the airport code?
KEP is the IATA code for Nepalgunj Airport. IATA stands for International Air Transport Association. This three-letter code is used worldwide to identify the airport in flight bookings and luggage tags.
How can you get the contact number for Buddha Air at Nepalgunj Airport?
Travelers can find Buddha Air’s contact information on the airline’s official website or by calling the airport’s main information desk. The exact number may change, so it’s best to check current listings.
Is there a map showing the location of Nepalgunj Airport within Nepal?
Yes, maps of Nepal showing Nepalgunj Airport’s location are available online. The airport is in the southwestern part of Nepal, near the Indian border.
In which district is Nepalgunj Airport situated?
Nepalgunj Airport is located in Banke district. This district is in the Terai region of Nepal, known for its flat terrain and proximity to India.
How do I contact Shree Airlines at Nepalgunj Airport?
Passengers can contact Shree Airlines at Nepalgunj Airport by checking the airline’s website for local office numbers. The airport information desk may also provide current contact details for airlines operating there.
What are the three-letter airport codes for the main airports in Nepal?
The main airports in Nepal have the following IATA codes:
- KTM: Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu
- PKR: Pokhara Airport
- BWA: Gautam Buddha International Airport
- KEP: Nepalgunj Airport
These codes are used for flight bookings and baggage handling across the global aviation network.