Yubaraj Adhikari, Executive Chairman of Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC), has unveiled an ambitious four-year plan aimed at expanding both domestic and international operations. Key highlights include direct flights to Sydney, Australia, and the purchase of new aircraft to boost competitiveness with private airlines.
The plan outlines the acquisition of a total of 15 aircraft over the next four years. This includes nine for domestic flights and six for international routes, consisting of five STOL (Short Takeoff and Landing) planes, four narrow-body, and two wide-body aircraft. In the first phase, three STOL aircraft are in the process of procurement, with the request for proposals (RFP) already under evaluation.
A major part of the international expansion is the preparation for regular direct flights to Sydney. Additionally, the corporation plans to lease two narrow-body planes for international flights and three planes for domestic urban operations. A subcommittee has already been formed to study these leasing arrangements.
To support this expansion, NAC has proposed a concessional loan of NPR 135 billion from various banks and financial institutions to finance the purchase of new aircraft.
Furthermore, NAC plans to build a corporate office with commercial facilities in Sinamangal, launch its catering service, and construct its hangar. However, there is uncertainty surrounding the management of the grounded Chinese aircraft. The government had previously decided to either lease or sell these planes, but tenders failed to attract interested parties. Chairman Adhikari has presented proposals to the NAC board to address the situation.
The plan also includes the sale of a grounded Boeing aircraft at Iberia and another at Tribhuvan International Airport. In addition, NAC intends to establish a ‘Self-Flight Kitchen’ to provide catering services for both its own and other airlines, which is expected to generate significant revenue and create additional employment opportunities.
This comprehensive plan reflects NAC’s ambitious approach to strengthening its operations and expanding its services in both domestic and international markets.
