Tourism Minister Pandey demands clarification from NAC Chairman

Kathmandu, August 29 — The government has instructed Yuvraj Adhikari, Chairman of Nepal Air Service Corporation (NAC), to provide an explanation within 7 days concerning the recent disruption of services caused by sending two widebody aircraft for C-Check simultaneously.

Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Badri Prasad Pandey has demanded a detailed explanation, setting a 7-day deadline. The minister has asked NAC to submit a written response outlining why two aircraft were sent for maintenance at the same time, which led to service interruptions.

The ministry has also expressed concern about repeated weaknesses and negligence in the corporation’s operations. They have criticized the leadership for failing to maintain a safe, dignified, competitive, and profitable service. The government has noted that the corporation's credibility is being compromised due to the chairman's perceived negligence and incompetence.

The ministry's instruction includes several specific issues that need addressing. First, there is concern over the selection of a maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) company that failed to complete the required work.

Additionally, there are complaints about a lack of healthy competition, transparency, and quality in technical testing, purchasing, and repairs.

The ministry is also questioning the responsibility of Nepal Air Service Corporation (NAC) for the damage caused by sending a technician with an expired visa.

 Furthermore, the ministry has highlighted problems such as the failure to conduct destination checks, the grounding of flights during peak tourist seasons, fines for delays, and a recent security breach where hackers accessed bank details, resulting in significant financial loss.

The ministry has requested clarification on the legal, financial, and moral responsibilities related to these issues. They have stressed the need for improved efficiency and accountability within the corporation, which is a crucial national carrier for connecting Nepal with the international aviation network.

The letter also emphasizes that NAC, fully owned by the Government of Nepal, must operate safely and competitively while maintaining Nepal's strategic presence. The ministry has asked for a detailed explanation in accordance with Sections 4 and 6 of the Nepal Airlines Corporation Act, 2019, within 7 days of receiving the letter, based on the Cabinet's decision.