The passengers for Nepalgunj-Kathmandu flights are experiencing harsh situation after Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) suspended its flights recently. NAC started flights to Nepalgunj from 2nd September this year but halted the operation stating the deficiency of pilots.
NAC’s spokesperson Rabindra Shrestha informed about their plan to recommence flights to Nepalgunj after Nov 18 but the confirmation is yet to be made.
The airlines had been charging Nrs.2300 to Nrs. 3200 for one-way travel to customers whereas private airline operators are charging Nrs.6000 to Nrs.9000 for one-way flight. Previously, NAC operated flights to Nepalgunj on Tuesday, Thursday and Friday every week.
Cancellation of flights by NAC will encourage other private airlines to escalate flight fares but private operators are forced not to do so by the authorities.
According to the official from NAC, the reason behind suspending the flights could be inadequate pilots or the busy schedule of aircraft. Also, the NAC staffs at Nepalgunj are unaware of the cancellation and update of flights.
NAC must enhance their crew management capabilities to continue smooth operation of flights.
At present, Buddha Air, Yeti Airlines, Shree Airlines and Saurya airlines are operating their regular scheduled flights to Nepalgunj from Kathmandu however; the locals prefer the national flag carrier due to the reasonable ticket price.
