The government has proposed strict action against airlines that charge passengers fares above the approved rates by taking advantage of festivals, disasters and other emergencies.
A bill drafted to amend and consolidate laws related to the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) proposes fines ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1.5 million for airlines found charging fares higher than the approved rates.
The draft, forwarded by the Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation after consultations with stakeholders, classifies operating flights while charging fares above CAAN-approved rates as an offense under Clause 47(d).
The proposed law also provides for doubling the fine for repeat offenses, with individuals or operators committing the same offense again facing twice the applicable penalty.
Demand for domestic air tickets generally rises sharply during major festivals such as Dashain, Tihar and Chhath. Passenger pressure also increases when floods, landslides, road blockages and other disasters disrupt ground transportation.
The proposed provision comes amid recurring complaints from passengers about being forced to pay expensive airfares during festivals and emergency situations.
