Mahesh Kumar Moktan, chief of western regional office of NAC, told Republica that that the number of flights was increased keeping in view the hardship faced by local people because of the shortage of air tickets.[break]
The national flag carrier has been operating 15 flights a week to eight different districts in the regions.
Locals, however, have complained that even the additional flights will be insufficient for them. Omkar Karki of Dolpa said the number of flights additional flights will still be insufficient as hundred of passengers were still in waiting list because of cancellation of flights owing to bad weather.
The locals have demanded the national flag carrier to operate at least one flight a day to every sector until Tihar.
Air service is the only mean of transportation for people in Humla, Dolpa and Mugu of Karnali and Kolti of Bajura.
Moktan said the passengers will need to pay double the regular fare to book tickets on additional flights. “We have managed to add 16 flights a week. NAC alone can´t meet such a huge demand,” Moktan added.
Other domestic airlines operating in the region, however, are yet to arrange additional flights for the Dashain festival.
Locals have accused Tara Air, which has been operating both cargo and passenger flights in the region, for sending two of its aircraft to carry international tourists in eastern areas of the country.
“How can the airline cater to such a huge crowd with just one aircraft?” the locals questioned.
Apart from NAC and Tara Air, Air Kasthamandap, Makalu Air and Sira Air are operating flights to different districts in mid and far western regions.
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