Overview
Dhangadhi Airport (IATA: DHI, ICAO: VNDH) is a public domestic airport serving the city of Dhangadhi in Kailali District, Sudurpashchim Province, Nepal. It is owned by the Government of Nepal and operated by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal.
Location and Facilities
- Geographic coordinates: 28°45′12″ N, 80°34′55″ E (28.75333° N, 80.58194° E)
- Elevation: 690 ft (210 m) above mean sea level.
- Runway: One asphalt runway designated 09/27, measuring 1,800 m (5,906 ft) in length. The airport is equipped with a non‑directional beacon (NDB) for navigation and operates under visual flight rules (VFR). Recent upgrades include runway edge lighting and runway threshold identification lights to support limited evening operations.
History
The airport was established on 6 July 1958. It has the longest runway among Nepal’s domestic airports and functions as a regional hub for the far‑western part of the country. Plans have been announced to upgrade Dhangadhi Airport to international status, with land acquisition completed for the required expansion.
Airlines and Destinations
Scheduled passenger services are provided by several Nepali airlines, connecting Dhangadhi with major domestic destinations:
| Airline | Destinations |
|---|---|
| Buddha Air | Kathmandu, Pokhara |
| Nepal Airlines | Bajura, Dipayal Silgadhi, Jayaprithvi (Bajhang) |
| Saurya Airlines | Kathmandu |
| Shree Airlines | Kathmandu |
In addition to fixed‑wing services, commercial helicopters operate from the airport to locations such as Khaptad National Park, Api Base Camp, Saipal Base Camp, and the Badimalika region.
Regional Role
Dhangadhi Airport serves as a critical transportation hub for Sudurpashchim Province and also supports nearby Rara Airport in Mugu District. It facilitates passenger travel, cargo transport, humanitarian aid, and tourism activities in Nepal’s far‑western region.
Future Development
The government has proposed converting the facility into an international airport to boost tourism and improve connectivity for Sudurpashchim and neighboring Karnali provinces. The land acquisition phase for this expansion has been completed, though formal approval and construction are pending.