Discussion on Nepal-Australia flight connectivity held

KATHMANDU: Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation Sudhan Kiranti Thursday held a discussion with the Australian ambassador to Nepal, Felicity Volk, on establishing direct flight connectivity between the two countries.

Matters related to bilateral tourism promotion were also discussed on the occasion, according to the minister’s secretariat.

The ministry has named Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) as the designated carrier for the operation of flights to Australia.

NAC Spokesperson Ramesh Poudel said the national flag carrier has started needful preparation to this end.

Nepal and Australia signed Air Service Agreement (ASA) in 2019. As per the ASA, designated Nepali carriers can operate seven flights a week to Sydney, Melbourne, Canberra and Perth, and unrestricted flights to other Australian destinations.

Similarly, Australian carriers can operate seven flights a week to Kathmandu and 28 flights a week to other airports i.e. Bhairahawa and Pokhara.