Bird and Wildlife Activity Emerges as Major Aviation Safety Concern at Pokhara International Airport

The report reveals that 4,667 bird- and wildlife-related incidents were documented during 2025. Out of these, 12 cases involved actual bird strikes with aircraft, highlighting the risk posed to flight operations. Compared with 890 similar incidents recorded in 2024, the figures show a dramatic increase in wildlife activity around the airport environment. Authorities noted that birds are frequently observed in critical operational zones such as aircraft movement areas, approach paths, and near the runway. These situations sometimes force pilots to alter landing procedures.

In several cases, pilots had to perform a “go-around” maneuver, meaning the aircraft aborted its landing and circled back due to bird flocks near the runway. A total of 75 such incidents were reported over the year. Additionally, 89 departures were halted or delayed after birds or other animals were spotted on the runway while aircraft were preparing for takeoff. Monthly data suggests that bird activity peaks during Kartik and Mangsir, two months in the Nepali calendar. Aviation staff and pilots reported between 100 and 890 bird sightings or related incidents each month.

According to the airport’s airside management division, species commonly seen around the airport include crows, kites, vultures, and occasionally ducks, all of which can pose a hazard to aircraft Overall, the airport documented 4,919 safety hazards and incident reports in 2025, a significant rise compared with 909 reports the previous year.

The safety report categorizes incidents into 18 different types, ranging from runway incursions and navigation errors to equipment failures, turbulence events, wind shear, storms, ground handling issues, and fire or smoke alerts. In terms of traffic, Pokhara International Airport recorded 16,113 total flight movements in 2025, including both domestic and international operations. Of these, 100 flights were international, reflecting a gradual rise in cross-border air traffic. Airport officials say that the growth in international activity is mainly due to scheduled and charter flight operations. Domestic flights accounted for the majority of movements, although their numbers were slightly lower than the previous year. Statistics also show that October had the highest number of flights, while July recorded the lowest traffic.

Currently, five airlines operate from Pokhara International Airport. International flights are handled by Himalaya Airlines and Sichuan Airlines, while Buddha Air, Shree Airlines, and Yeti Airlines serve domestic routes.