Nepal’s domestic aviation sector is set to witness the entry of a new airline as Danfe Airlines prepares to launch regular commercial flights from Dashain 2083. The airline has officially received a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), marking a significant step toward starting operations.
At present, only three airlines are operating regular domestic flights in Nepal. The entry of Danfe Airlines is expected to increase competition, expand connectivity across the country, and provide passengers with more travel options.
NOC Granted as Fourth Step in Airline Certification
According to Gyanendra Bhul, Information Officer at the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, Danfe Airlines received the NOC a few weeks ago. The NOC is considered the fourth stage in the airline certification process in Nepal. With this approval, the airline can now proceed with the next steps, including aircraft acquisition and demonstration (training) flights, which are mandatory before launching commercial operations.
Preparations Underway for Regular Flights
Abhishekman Shrestha, Director of Danfe Airlines, stated that preparations for regular operations have already begun after receiving the NOC. He explained that the company is now focusing on bringing aircraft to Nepal and conducting demonstration flights. According to him, the airline plans to bring its first aircraft by Asar 2083 and start demonstration flights soon after. “Our goal is to complete the demonstration phase and begin regular flights by Dashain 2083,” Shrestha said.
Fleet Plan: Three ATR 72-600 Aircraft
Danfe Airlines plans to operate three ATR 72-600 aircraft, which are widely used in regional aviation around the world. The airline stated that these aircraft will provide high-quality service and a more comfortable flying experience for passengers. The ATR 72‑600 is considered one of the most efficient regional aircraft, known for its reliability, fuel efficiency, and suitability for short-haul routes.
The airline plans to:
- Bring one aircraft to Ashadh 2083
- Add two additional aircraft shortly after
- Begin operations with three aircraft simultaneously
The company has also started recruiting necessary technical and operational staff to support the planned operations.
Planned Flight Destinations
Danfe Airlines will have its operational base in Pokhara and plans to serve several key domestic destinations.
Initially, the airline aims to operate flights to:
- Nepalgunj
- Surkhet
- Pokhara
- Biratnagar
- Bhadrapur
- Simara
- Janakpur
- Bhairahawa
- Tumlingtar
The airline also plans to offer mountain flights, a popular aerial tourism activity that allows passengers to view the Himalayan range. However, flights to Dhangadhi will not be included in the first phase. The company stated that services to the region will begin after the fourth aircraft is added to its fleet.
Revival of Former Makalu Air
Danfe Airlines is essentially a revival of the former Makalu Air, which had ceased operations nearly a decade ago. A new investor group acquired the company and rebranded it as Danfe Airlines. The Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation had earlier renewed the airline’s operating license under Danfe Aviation Corporation, making it valid until Bhadra 29, 2084.
Investment of Around Rs 4 Billion
The airline plans to invest around Rs 4 billion to acquire and operate the three aircraft. According to the company, the global market price of a single ATR 72‑600 currently exceeds USD 11 million, which is approximately Rs 1.64 billion. The total investment will therefore cover aircraft acquisition, operational setup, and related infrastructure.
The launch of Danfe Airlines is expected to strengthen Nepal’s domestic aviation network, improve regional connectivity, and introduce modern aircraft and improved passenger services in the domestic market. Industry observers believe that the addition of a new airline could help reduce congestion on busy routes and enhance service quality, particularly as demand for domestic air travel continues to grow in Nepal.
