Kathmandu, Nepal — Nepal’s Minister for Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, Badri Prasad Pandey, has voiced concern over the limited number of international flights operated by Nepali airlines, saying this has left Nepali passengers overly dependent on foreign carriers.
Speaking during a meeting of the Federalism Strengthening and National Concerns Committee, Minister Pandey highlighted that Nepal Airlines and Himalaya Airlines—Nepal’s two main international carriers—currently handle only about 7 to 8 percent of total international air travelers. In contrast, Qatar Airways alone carries nearly 31 percent.
“Because we don’t have enough of our own international flights, foreign airlines are dragging us around,” said Pandey. “They set ticket prices however they like, and we Nepalis are left with no choice but to pay.”
According to the minister, the main issue is Nepal’s limited number of international aircraft and destinations. He emphasized that without stronger capacity from local airlines, foreign companies will continue to dominate the skies.
“The only real solution is to expand our own airlines so they can compete. That’s the way to bring balance to airfare pricing,” Pandey said.
He added that the government is looking into acquiring more aircraft—either through direct purchase or leasing. With around 60 percent of commercial aircraft worldwide operated on lease, Nepal is also considering this approach as a practical way to grow its fleet.
Minister Pandey also mentioned that the ministry is discussing policy changes that would make it easier for the private sector to join the international aviation space. The goal, he said, is to create a more competitive and fair aviation market for Nepali travelers.
