Kathmandu, May 13 -- The news that Nepal Airlines Corporation was going to resume flights to Japan truly enthused me not only because I work for the national flag carrier, but also because it was going to make a meaningful impact on the government's tourism initiative to mark 2020 as Visit Nepal Year. Having direct air connectivity will not only link Nepal with the outside world but also help bring in significant revenues, thereby helping the tourism industry and beyond. Aviation diplomacy can play a crucial role in promoting Nepal's tourism sector that has a major bearing on the country's economy.

The history of aviation in Nepal dates back to 1949 with the landing of a Beechcraft Bonanza carrying the then Indian ambassador to Nepal. Th...