KATHMANDU, June 30: Paragliding enthusiasts in Pokhara are set to face increased flight charges as the Nepal Airsports Association (NAA) announced a fee adjustment for paragliding flights.
Previously, individuals paid a fee of Rs 8,500 per flight, but now they will be required to pay Rs 12,000. According to Sunil Bhattarai, the president of NAA, the revised fee incorporates costs such as sick leave and pilot expenses.
One flight a day rule enforced for paragliding pilots
Bhattarai explained that with the operation of the international regional airport in Pokhara, their expenses have escalated, necessitating the adjustment in fees. Additionally, the paragliding sites have transitioned from Toripani and Sarangkot to Mandre Dhunga, contributing to the increased costs.
As a result of the revised fee structure, paragliding pilots will now receive approximately Rs 6,000 per flight, as stated by Sobit Baniya, former vice president of NAA. He further noted that previously pilots received Rs 3,900 for each flight.
Currently, 52 out of the 60 affiliated paragliding companies are providing services, with a total of 375 licensed paragliding pilots among them. Bhattarai mentioned that there are currently 250 active pilots serving the industry.
