KATHMANDU: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey has stressed that strengthening Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) is crucial for the overall development of the country’s aviation sector.
Speaking at a program organized at NAC’s central office on the occasion of its 67th anniversary, Minister Pandey said that all elements of the aviation industry are interdependent, making it imperative to enhance the national flag carrier.
Describing Nepal Airlines as a historically significant institution and the backbone of Nepal’s tourism sector, the minister assured continued government support for the corporation’s development. He urged NAC management and staff to work in an objective, evidence-based, and result-oriented manner.
On the occasion, NAC’s Executive Chairperson Yubaraj Adhikari highlighted recent achievements and pointed out that the Public Procurement Regulations have been a major obstacle to the corporation’s growth. He emphasized the importance of safe, reliable, affordable, and regular flights to boost public confidence and strengthen the corporation’s credibility.
As part of its week-long anniversary celebration, a formal event was held today at the central office in New Road. Minister Pandey inaugurated a newly constructed data center at the NAC building and took part in a ritual ceremony at the Akash Bhairav temple, organized by the anniversary committee.
The morning rally that started from NAC’s premises—passing through Bhugol Park, Ratna Park, Bhrikuti Mandap, Sundhara—and returning to the office, turned into a celebratory assembly.
Established on July 1, 1958, Nepal Airlines began its services using a 28-seater Douglas DC-3 Dakota. Over the years, it has modernized its fleet, most recently adding wide-body Airbus A330-200 aircraft.
Currently, NAC operates international flights to destinations including Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand, Narita (Japan), Doha (Qatar), Dubai (UAE) and Riyadh (Saudi Arabia). These flights are operated using two A330 wide-body and two A320 narrow-body aircraft.
Domestically, the corporation operates flights to remote and mountainous regions using its two Twin Otter aircraft. However, due to a shortage of planes, NAC’s presence in the domestic market has been declining.
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