The Government of Nepal has appointed Bikram Rai, the current Vice-Chairperson of Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC), as the Acting Chairperson of the corporation’s Board of Directors following the completion of former Chairperson Yubraj Adhikari’s tenure. Similarly, Anil Ghimire, the corporation’s Corporate Director, has been designated as the official spokesperson of the national flag carrier.
Rai Takes Oath and Assumes Office
Acting Chairperson Rai was administered the oath of office and secrecy on Tuesday by Indu Ghimire, Acting Secretary at the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation (MoCTCA). After assuming his duties, Rai expressed his commitment to bring visible reforms within Nepal Airlines in alignment with the aspirations of the Prime Minister and the ongoing Good Governance Campaign.
Addressing senior management during his first day in office, Rai pledged to focus on operational efficiency, transparency, and accountability within the corporation. “Nepal Airlines must reflect professionalism, discipline, and trustworthiness in its operations. My focus will be on restoring confidence among passengers and enhancing service quality,” he stated.
Operational Directives and Reforms
Soon after taking charge, Rai issued several operational directives aimed at improving the airline’s performance and addressing long-standing concerns. He instructed the technical division to complete the installation of the A320 engine, which had been sent to Israel for maintenance, within 15 days. The replacement engine, previously rented, is set to be returned to its supplier following successful repairs.
Furthermore, Rai ordered the immediate termination of the practice of upgrading business-class tickets through non-transparent means, a trend that had drawn public criticism and media attention in recent months. He also directed officials to revise the baggage policy in line with modern international standards and to swiftly address passenger complaints related to damaged or delayed luggage.
Accountability and Staff Regulation
In his address to department heads, Rai stressed the importance of merit-based employment and accountability. He instructed the Human Resources Department to review and nullify any irregular or non-compliant appointments, particularly those made on a contractual or daily-wage basis without proper authorization.
Rai made it clear that he would not personally interfere in the corporation’s day-to-day management decisions. “My role is to provide strategic direction, not micromanagement. The management team must operate independently while maintaining integrity and efficiency,” he added.
Briefing from Department Heads
Following his assumption of office, Acting Chairperson Rai was formally welcomed by Acting Managing Director (MD) Janak Raj Kalakheti, along with other departmental heads. Each department presented an update on ongoing projects, challenges, and performance indicators.
During the briefing, Acting MD Kalakheti assured the new Chairperson of full cooperation in achieving institutional reforms and strengthening NAC’s position as a reliable national carrier.
Anil Ghimire Appointed as Spokesperson
On the same day, Acting MD Kalakheti appointed Anil Ghimire, Corporate Director at NAC, as the new spokesperson of the organization. Ghimire, who has served in various capacities within Nepal Airlines for nearly two decades, brings extensive experience in corporate communication and administration.
In his remarks, Ghimire emphasized his commitment to enhancing public trust and maintaining transparent communication with the media and the public. “My responsibility is to convey accurate information to the public, highlight the corporation’s progress, and ensure that our communication reflects NAC’s integrity and national pride,” Ghimire stated.
He also noted that the airline is prioritizing better coordination with media outlets to promote a positive institutional image while ensuring timely updates on corporate decisions, flight operations, and service improvements.
A Renewed Focus on Reform and Transparency
With the appointment of Bikram Rai as Acting Chairperson and Anil Ghimire as Spokesperson, Nepal Airlines appears set for a phase of structural reforms and operational discipline. Ministry officials expect these leadership changes to contribute to restoring the airline’s competitiveness, financial stability, and reputation both domestically and internationally.
NAC, the country’s only government-owned national carrier, has faced multiple operational and managerial challenges over the years, including financial losses, maintenance issues, and internal governance concerns. The new leadership has expressed a strong commitment to revitalizing the organization and improving customer satisfaction through transparency, accountability, and efficiency.
