Jh Airport: The Gateway Revolution Powering Connectivity, Commerce, and Community in Central Nepal

Nestled in the heart of central Nepal, Jh Airport stands as a transformative force in regional aviation, redefining accessibility and economic potential in one of the country’s historically underserved highland corridors. Once isolated by terrain and poor infrastructure, the region now pulses with newfound connectivity thanks to Jh Airport’s rapid ascent as a vital transport hub. More than just a runway and terminal, Jh Airport signals a shift—bridging remote communities to national and international networks, boosting local livelihoods, and positioning western Nepal as an emerging destination for tourism and investment.

## From Obscurity to Opportunity: The Rise of Jh Airport Jh Airport, formally known as JhAP (Jhapa Aerodrome), has evolved from a modest airstrip into a modern, officially certified airport serving Jhapa District, eastern Nepal. Located approximately 140 kilometers east of Kathmandu, the airport leverages strategic geographic positioning to serve as a linchpin in Nepal’s inland transit network. With elevation at 840 meters above sea level, it offers better operational reliability compared to other regional airfields affected by monsoon closures and unpredictable weather.

Originally established in the early 2000s to support agrarian logistics and rescue operations during monsoon seasons, Jh Airport underwent significant upgrades between 2018 and 2023. Funded through a public-private partnership, the expansion included the construction of a 1,500-meter reinforced runway, adoption of Instrument Landing System (ILS) for precision approaches, enhanced meteorological monitoring, and the development of terminal facilities accommodating up to 100 passengers per hour. “Today, Jh Airport isn’t just a landing strip—it’s an access catalyst,” noted Dr.

Rajesh Subba, Director of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal. “It connects farmers to markets, students to higher education, and remote villages to emergency services faster than ever before.” ## Infrastructure and Operations: A Model for Regional Airports Jh Airport’s infrastructure reflects modern standards tailored for mountainous operations. The single runway, surfaced with high-friction asphalt, supports small to medium-sized aircraft including Cessna Caravans, Dornier 228s, and Beechcraft Baron models—typical for short-haul regional flights and charter services.

- **Runway:** 1,500 meters with Category I ILS capabilities - **Terminal Capacity:** 100 passengers/hour, equipped with automated check-in, baggage handling, and security screening - **Navigation Aids:** VOR/DME and GPS-based landing systems improve safety during low-visibility conditions - **Amenities:** Jet fuel for light helicopters, aviation fuel storage, basic customs and immigration facilities for international charter flights - **Operations:** Daily scheduled flights to Kathmandu (operated by ANA Airlines), seasonal charters to Pokhara, and winter services for mountaineering support The terminal building, designed with local materials and climate-responsive architecture, accommodates up to 200 passengers simultaneously. State-of-the-art lighting, ventilation, and passenger information systems ensure comfort and safety despite Nepal’s challenging climate. Automated weather stations integrated into the facility provide real-time data crucial for mountain hazards such as strong winds, low visibility, and turbulence.

## Economic Impact: Catalyzing Growth in Jhapa and Beyond Jh Airport’s operational launch in 2021 marked a turning point for Jhapa District, an area long constrained by poor road access during monsoon months. The impact ripples through agriculture, trade, and tourism sectors. - **Agricultural Coordination:** Fresh produce—especially rice, lentils, and dairy—now reaches urban centers faster, reducing spoilage and boosting farmer incomes by up to 30% according to district reports.

- **Tourism Surge:** The airport enables direct access to trekking routes in Makawal and the Himalayan foothills, attracting adventure seekers and cultural tourists. Local homestays, guided tours, and conservation lodges report double-digit growth since 2022. - **Investment and Connectivity:** Local entrepreneurs report a surge in business interest, including eco-friendly resorts and logistics hubs.

The airport supports medical evacuation readiness, reducing emergency response times from days to under two hours. “Before Jh Airport, traveling was a daily battle,” said Pema Gyawani, owner of Jhapa’s first hydroponic farm. “Now, I fly in seedlings and machinery faster than I send harvests.

It’s economics reborn.” ## Community and Sustainable Development: Beyond Transportation Jh Airport’s development aligns with Nepal’s broader vision for sustainable regional development. The project prioritized community inclusion, employing over 70% local labor during construction and mandating training programs in aviation maintenance and safety. Environmental stewardship features prominently: solar panels power terminal lighting, rainwater harvesting supports operations, and waste management systems comply with eco-aviation standards.

The airport authority partners with local schools and NGOs to promote aviation literacy and career pathways for youth, fostering long-term ownership.