Tourism Minister Calls for Upholding Nepal Airlines' Legacy

Kathmandu,Nepal: Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation Minister Hit Bahadur Tamang emphasized the importance of preserving the dignity of Nepal Airlines Corporation, the national flag carrier, during a ceremony marking its 66th anniversary.

Speaking at the event, Minister Tamang highlighted the corporation's storied history and its success in establishing a unique identity in both national and international aviation. He stressed the need for strategic planning to further enhance the airline's reputation and operations.

"Entering its 67th year today, Nepal Airlines Corporation has overcome numerous challenges to carve out a distinct presence in the aviation sector. It is crucial that we continue to build on this legacy," said Minister Tamang.

The anniversary celebration included a Prabhatpheri, a morning procession that started and ended at the corporation's central office in New Road, passing through Basantpur, Akash Bhairav, Ghantaghar, Bhadrakali, and Sundhara. Founded on July 1, 1958, as Royal Nepal Airlines Corporation, it is Nepal's oldest airline service provider.

Nepal Airlines currently operates flights from Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu to international destinations such as New Delhi, Bangalore, Mumbai, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Thailand, Japan's Narita, Doha in Qatar, Dubai in the UAE, and Riyadh in Saudi Arabia. Its international fleet comprises two wide-body A330 and two narrow-body A320 aircraft, serving over 22 domestic destinations in remote areas.

The airline's history includes the introduction of the Douglas DC-3 'Dakota' for domestic flights and initial services to India. In 1971, it added its first jet, the Boeing 727, to its fleet. By July 13, 2020, a total of seven aircraft were in service. The corporation also connected remote areas by introducing the Pilatus Porter in 1960 and the Chinese Feng Sou-2 Harvester aircraft in 1962.

Minister Tamang’s call to protect the national carrier's dignity underscores the ongoing commitment to maintain and enhance the legacy of Nepal Airlines Corporation.