Nepal’s leading private airline, Buddha Air, has officially retired one of its long-serving ATR-72 aircraft after it completed its full operational capacity. The aircraft, bearing the call sign 9N-AJO, was formally bid farewell following years of service that significantly contributed to the expansion and reliability of domestic air travel in Nepal.
The retirement ceremony marked an emotional moment for the airline’s management, aviation officials, and technical staff who had been closely associated with the aircraft throughout its operational life. According to the airline, the ATR-72 aircraft had reached its maximum flight cycle capacity, a milestone rarely achieved in the aviation industry, highlighting the airline’s strong maintenance practices and commitment to safety.
A Historic Aviation Milestone
The ATR-72 aircraft is designed with a maximum operational capacity of around 72,000 flight cycles. In aviation terminology, a “cycle” refers to one complete sequence of a takeoff and landing. After reaching this operational limit, the aircraft must be retired from active service in accordance with international aviation standards.
The aircraft joined the commercial fleet of Buddha Air on July 2, 2010, and remained operational for nearly 16 years. During this long service period, the aircraft played a vital role in connecting different parts of Nepal through reliable domestic flights. Its final commercial journey took place on March 9, 2026, operating a flight from Bhairahawa to Kathmandu. The final landing marked the end of a remarkable chapter in the airline’s operational history.
Throughout its 16-year service period, the aircraft transported an impressive 2,482,772 passengers. This achievement reflects the aircraft’s significant role in supporting Nepal’s growing aviation sector and improving connectivity within the mountainous country, where air travel remains an essential mode of transportation.
Contribution to Nepal’s Domestic Aviation
During the farewell event, Executive Chairman Birendra Bahadur Basnet expressed deep emotion while reflecting on the aircraft’s contribution to Nepal’s aviation sector. He stated that the aircraft had played a major role in making air travel in Nepal more accessible, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly. According to Basnet, the aircraft not only supported the expansion of Buddha Air’s market but also helped strengthen the airline’s reputation as one of the most reliable carriers in the country.
Basnet also highlighted that Buddha Air had set a historic record by successfully operating the ATR aircraft throughout its full design life cycle. “This aircraft has made a tremendous contribution in making air travel easier, affordable, and environmentally friendly in Nepal. It has also played an important role in expanding our market and strengthening the credibility of Buddha Air,” he said.
Strong Safety and Maintenance Practices
Officials from the aviation regulator also praised the airline’s safety standards and technical expertise in maintaining the aircraft throughout its service life. Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal General Manager Teknath Sitaula stated that the successful retirement of the aircraft after completing its operational life demonstrates Buddha Air’s strong commitment to aviation safety and proper aircraft maintenance.
He emphasized that the airline’s disciplined approach to technical management and maintenance made it possible for the aircraft to safely operate until the end of its certified life cycle. Such achievements are considered rare in the aviation sector, where many aircraft are retired earlier due to operational or technical limitations.
Global Manufacturer Applauds Partnership
Representatives from the aircraft manufacturer also acknowledged the airline’s operational excellence. Senior Vice President of ATR, Stefano Marazzani, expressed satisfaction with the long-standing partnership between ATR and Buddha Air.
He noted that the aircraft, designed and manufactured by ATR, had successfully served passengers until its final flight due to the airline’s highly capable technical team and well-managed operational environment. Marazzani added that the aircraft’s safe operation until the end of its life cycle demonstrates Buddha Air’s strong safety culture and commitment to international aviation standards.
Continued Modernization of Fleet
The retirement of the ATR-72 aircraft is part of Buddha Air’s broader fleet management strategy aimed at maintaining high safety and efficiency standards. The airline had earlier retired an ATR-42 aircraft on September 10, 2024, marking another step toward modernizing its fleet.
Buddha Air currently operates domestic flights across Nepal, connecting major cities and regional destinations. The airline also operates direct flights from Pokhara to destinations such as Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa, and Bharatpur. In addition to domestic services, the airline has expanded its international routes to India, including flights to Varanasi and Kolkata.
A Memorable Chapter in Nepal’s Aviation History
The retirement of the ATR-72 aircraft represents not just the end of a single aircraft’s journey but also an important milestone in Nepal’s aviation history. Over the past decade and a half, the aircraft helped thousands of travelers reach their destinations safely while supporting tourism, trade, and regional connectivity. As Buddha Air continues to strengthen its fleet and expand its services, the legacy of the ATR-72 aircraft 9N-AJO will remain an important symbol of reliability, safety, and progress in Nepal’s growing aviation industry.
