At a time when passengers have been complaining about expensive air tickets during the approaching Dashain festival, the Airlines Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) has claimed that fares remain below the maximum ceiling set by the government.
In a press release issued by AOAN President Manoj Karki, the association said airlines are selling tickets at rates lower than the government-determined maximum fare.
The statement noted that the AOAN has taken serious note of public complaints regarding high charges during Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festivals. It further assured that not only are tickets currently being sold at lower rates, but upcoming tickets will also be issued at reduced prices.
The decision was made following a meeting on September 24, chaired by the Secretary of the Ministry of Culture, Tourism, and Civil Aviation, and attended by senior officials of the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) and airline representatives.
The AOAN also clarified that there is currently no significant flight pressure in remote destinations, and airfare rates for these areas remain unchanged. Airlines are operating flights in line with the government’s approved rates, it added.