KATHMANDU, June 13: Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister Sudan Kirati has said that there is a conspiracy to prevent the addition of new aircraft to the Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) fleet. He said that it would be better to abolish the ministry if no new planes are purchased.
After an NAC flight landed at the Gautam Buddha International Airport (GBIA), Bhairahawa, from Malaysia on Tuesday morning, Minister Kirati said in a press conference held at the airport that there is a conspiracy to prevent the addition of new aircraft to NAC’s fleet.
NAC will procure new aircrafts soon: Minister Kirati
While he did not reveal who had conspired not to allow the purchase of new aircraft, Minister Kirati hinted that the conspiracy is underway in the interests of private airlines.
"NAC must purchase new aircraft. Otherwise, abolish the ministry," Minister Kirati said, adding, "There are many conspiracies to prevent the purchase, but according to the law, it must be purchased in a transparent manner so that there will be no stain."
Minister Kirati said that since the charter rate of private airline companies is very expensive, the corporation should add aircraft and provide services at a cheaper rate. He said that at least 50 aircraft, big and small, should belong to the corporation.
Saying that the government is trying to get air route permission from India, he assured that regular flights will be launched from the GBIA soon. Minister Kirati said that initiatives are also being taken for direct air flights to Thailand, Cambodia and Sri Lanka, where Buddhists have a majority.
