Nepal is moving toward clearer legal protections for air passengers, with lawmakers calling for stronger guarantees on safety, service standards and compensation when flights are disrupted or accidents occur. The issue came up during a discussion on the Domestic Air Service Liability Bill, 2083 at the National Assembly’s Legislation Management Committee. Lawmakers said passengers should have clearly defined rights when flights are cancelled or delayed and when accidents result in injury, death or other losses. The proposed provisions could also have significance for Nepal’s tourism industry, which depends heavily on reliable domestic air services to connect travelers with destinations across the country.
Lawmakers Seek Clearer Passenger Protection
During the committee discussion, lawmakers emphasized that the expansion of Nepal’s aviation infrastructure needs to be matched by stronger passenger protection measures. They called for airlines to take responsibility when services are disrupted and provide reasonable alternatives to affected passengers. Compensation provisions were also highlighted for situations involving injuries, fatalities, baggage and cargo losses, as well as risks to people outside the aircraft. Lawmakers said passengers often select air travel because of its speed and convenience. When a flight is cancelled or delayed without an alternative arrangement, travelers can face additional costs and disruption to their plans. For tourists, such interruptions can affect trekking itineraries, hotel reservations, domestic connections and other pre-arranged travel services.
Reliable Aviation Key to Tourism Connectivity
The discussion also brought attention to Nepal’s expanding network of airports and the need to ensure that new infrastructure is supported by practical and sustainable operations. Lawmakers referred to Gautam Buddha International Airport and Pokhara International Airport, stressing that airport development should be guided by technical requirements and economic feasibility rather than political pressure. Strong domestic air connectivity remains important for tourism because visitors frequently rely on flights to reach major tourism centers and remote destinations. A dependable aviation system can make travel planning easier and help reduce uncertainty for both international visitors and domestic travelers.
Regulation and Accountability Remain Important
Lawmakers also stressed that passing legislation alone would not be enough to improve Nepal’s aviation services. They called for regular monitoring of airlines and stronger implementation of safety and service standards. The proposed bill is intended to clarify the responsibilities of domestic air service providers in cases involving accidents, flight disruptions and passenger property. Lawmakers urged the government to refine the legislation and ensure that its provisions can be effectively enforced. For Nepal’s tourism sector, stronger passenger rights and more dependable domestic aviation could help build greater confidence among travelers while supporting smoother access to the country’s major tourism destinations.
