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Nepal's national flag carrier connecting the Himalayas to the world.
Founded
1958
Headquarters
Kathmandu, Nepal
Royal Nepal Airlines, officially known as Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC), is the flag carrier of Nepal. Founded in 1958, it operates domestic and international routes, connecting Kathmandu with destinations across Asia and beyond. The airline is wholly owned by the Government of Nepal.
The airline has faced significant operational and financial challenges over the decades, including an aging fleet, management issues, and competition from private carriers. Despite these difficulties, it remains a symbol of Nepali aviation and plays a key role in connecting remote mountain communities within Nepal.
Nepal Airlines operates out of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu and serves destinations including cities in India, China, Malaysia, Qatar, and Japan, alongside numerous domestic airstrips, including high-altitude airports in the Himalayas.
Hubs & network
Nepal Airlines operates primarily out of Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu.
Fleet
The fleet includes narrow-body jets such as the Boeing 757 and ATR 72 turboprop aircraft for domestic and regional operations.
Notable facts
- ›Originally named Royal Nepal Airlines Corporation, it was rebranded Nepal Airlines Corporation after Nepal became a republic in 2008.
- ›The airline operates some of the world's most challenging mountain airstrip routes, including Lukla (Tenzing-Hillary Airport).
- ›Nepal Airlines has been on the European Union Air Safety List, restricting its operations to European airspace at various times.
- ›The carrier is 100% government-owned and has struggled with financial losses and fleet shortages for many years.
- ›Nepal Airlines introduced jet service in 1967 with the Boeing 727.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
