Kathmandu. Buddha Air has officially bid farewell to the ATR-72 aircraft with call sign (9N-AJO) after the full operation of the aircraft. The ATR-72 aircraft has a maximum airlift capacity of 72,000 bicycles. ‘Bicycle’ refers to one takeoff and one landing of an aircraft.
The ATR-72 aircraft had been operating commercial flights since July 2, 2010. Its last flight was conducted on 9 March 2026 from Bhairahawa to Kathmandu. During the 16 years of the flight, the aircraft carried 2,482,772 passengers.
Executive Chairman of Buddha Air, Birendra Bahadur Basnet said, “This aircraft has contributed a lot to make Nepal’s air travel easier, less expensive and environment-friendly. This has played an important role in expanding the market and increasing the credibility of Buddha Air. We have also set a historical record of operating a full life of ATR aircraft. ’
Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) General Manager Teknath Sitaula said that Buddha Air’s commitment to aviation safety and excellent maintenance and management made it possible for the departure of the ATR aircraft successfully.
Mr. Stefano Marazzini, Senior Vice President of ATR Company, expressed his deep happiness over the partnership with Buddha Air. This reaffirms Buddha Air’s high safety commitment. ’
Earlier, Buddha Air had also bid adieu to the ATR-42 aircraft on September 10, 2024. Buddha Air has been operating direct flights from Pokhara to Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa and Bharatpur. It is also operating international flights to Varanasi and Kolkata of India.
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