Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC), the national flag carrier, marks its 67th anniversary today, July 1, 2025 commemorating its journey that began on July 1, 1958, with a 28-seater Douglas DC-3 Dakota aircraft.
Over the years, the airline has expanded its fleet and destinations, currently operating international flights with two Airbus A330-200 widebody and two A320 narrowbody aircraft. Its international destinations include New Delhi, Bangalore, and Mumbai in India; Hong Kong; Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia; Bangkok, Thailand; Narita, Japan; Doha, Qatar; Dubai, UAE; and Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.
Domestically, NAC serves remote airports using two Twin Otter aircraft. However, due to a limited number of planes, its presence in the domestic market has significantly declined.
Once known for organizing formal anniversary events, NAC has in recent years scaled back to modest celebrations. Despite its long history, the airline has struggled to significantly improve its market share. Its financial condition also remains precarious, with reported liabilities reaching around Rs 50 billion.
The airline had taken loans from the Employees Provident Fund and the Citizen Investment Trust to procure its widebody aircraft. However, inefficient operation of its aircraft and intense competition from budget airlines have contributed to its declining reputation. Still, NAC has seen some recent improvements through enhanced ground handling services and efforts to promote trade on international routes.
Several study committees have been formed over the years to improve NAC’s management, and the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation has announced various reform plans, but none have been fully implemented.
NAC spokesperson Subash Dangol said all four aircraft on international routes are operating at full capacity. He acknowledged that the lack of adequate small aircraft has prevented the airline from expanding its services to all domestic destinations. Meanwhile, efforts are underway to add more international routes, he added.
To mark the 67th anniversary, NAC organized a friendly football tournament at the ANFA ground in Satdobato on Monday, with separate matches between male and female staff teams as well as executive groups, in the presence of the Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation. Other anniversary events included a poetry recitation competition and a table tennis tournament. -- RSS
