Buddha Air: Connecting Nepal's Skies and Beyond

Buddha Air is one of the most trusted and well-established private airlines in Nepal, known for its reliable service, extensive domestic network, and contribution to Nepal's aviation and tourism industries. Since its establishment in 1997, the airline has consistently maintained a strong reputation for safety, comfort, and punctuality.

Headquarters and Main Base

Buddha Air’s primary hub is Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu. From this central base, the airline operates scheduled domestic flights across Nepal, charter services, and special sightseeing mountain flights that attract tourists from around the world.

Domestic Network: Connecting Cities and Cultures

Buddha Air has developed a robust network of nine key domestic destinations, helping connect remote towns and urban centers with the capital city and each other. The airline uses a fleet that includes ATR 42 and ATR 72 aircraft, known for their reliability on short regional routes with varied terrain.

Main Domestic Destinations:

1. Bhadrapur – Bhadrapur Airport (Jhapa)
   A gateway to the eastern hills and Ilam, this route is popular among tea traders and travelers heading toward Darjeeling and Sikkim.

2. Bhairahawa – Gautam Buddha International Airport (Lumbini)
   This city is the entry point for pilgrims visiting Lumbini, the birthplace of Lord Buddha.

3. Bharatpur – Bharatpur Airport (Chitwan)
   The nearest airport to Chitwan National Park, popular for jungle safaris and wildlife tourism.

4. Biratnagar – Biratnagar Airport
   One of the busiest industrial and business hubs in eastern Nepal.

5. Dhangadhi – Dhangadhi Airport
   A western entry point serving far-western Nepal, including destinations like Tikapur and Kailali.

6. Janakpur – Janakpur Airport
   A religious and cultural city, home to the Janaki Temple, significant in Hindu mythology.

7. Nepalgunj – Nepalgunj Airport
   A critical transit point for treks and expeditions heading toward the western Himalayas like Rara Lake and Dolpo.

8. Pokhara – Pokhara International Airport
   One of the most scenic and busiest routes, linking the tourism capital of Nepal with Kathmandu.

9. Birgunj – Simara Airport
   A vital connection to one of Nepal’s largest trade and commercial cities.

Scenic Mountain Flights: A Journey to the Top of the World

Buddha Air is widely recognized for its daily mountain flights from Kathmandu. These flights provide a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the grandeur of the Himalayas, including Mount Everest (8,848.86 m), without trekking.

• Route: From Kathmandu, the aircraft flies eastward parallel to the Himalayan range.

• Sights: Passengers can view peaks such as Langtang Lirung, Ganesh Himal, Gauri Shankar, Dorje Lakpa, Makalu, and the majestic Mount Everest.

• Duration: Around 1 hour.

• Experience: Every passenger gets a window seat and a certificate of flight completion.

These flights are especially popular among short-term visitors, elder travelers, and those physically unable to trek.

Charter Services

In addition to scheduled flights, Buddha Air offers chartered flight services for personal, business, medical evacuation, or government purposes. These are ideal for:

• Remote area transport

• VIP movements

• Emergency medical flights

• Film crews and researchers

Their flexible charter options provide access to unserved and underserved regions of Nepal.

International Flight: Paro, Bhutan

In summer 2010, Buddha Air became the first foreign airline to operate flights to Paro, Bhutan, marking a milestone in its international expansion. This was a significant achievement as Paro International Airport is one of the most challenging airports in the world due to its terrain and approach paths.

• Route: Kathmandu to Paro

• Aircraft Used: Beechcraft 1900D during its early operations

• Significance: Strengthened Nepal-Bhutan tourism and religious ties.

Though the airline does not currently operate other international routes regularly, this venture proved its capability in international aviation.

Fleet and Safety Standards

Buddha Air operates a fleet that includes:

• ATR 72-500

• ATR 42-320

• Beechcraft 1900D (earlier operations)

They maintain stringent safety protocols, regular aircraft maintenance, and have one of the highest safety records among Nepali carriers. Their pilots are well-trained, and the airline often collaborates with international aviation experts to improve service quality.

Commitment to Tourism and Development

Buddha Air plays a vital role in Nepal’s tourism sector by:

• Supporting domestic tourism growth through affordable fares.

• Providing access to pilgrimage sites, trekking regions, and natural attractions.

• Promoting eco-tourism through responsible operations.

Awards and Recognition

• Recognized by the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal for punctuality and safety.

• Frequently awarded in travel and tourism expos.

• High ratings on review platforms from both Nepali and international travelers.

Conclusion

With over two decades of reliable service, Buddha Air continues to be a leader in Nepal’s aviation industry. Its focus on customer satisfaction, timely flights, and commitment to safety make it a preferred airline for both domestic passengers and international tourists. Whether you're flying to the scenic town of Pokhara, the spiritual city of Janakpur, or taking a once-in-a-lifetime mountain flight to see Everest, Buddha Air ensures your journey is safe, comfortable, and unforgettable.