SOTTO Nepal: Limited Flight Destinations Drive Up Airfare Costs

SOTTO Nepal has concluded that the limited flight destinations have allowed foreign airlines to establish monopolies, resulting in significantly higher airfare prices. Chairman Man Bahadur Shahi expressed a commitment to transform Nepal Airlines Corporation into a corporate model and expand international flights. SOTTO Nepal also stated that it is actively promoting tourism by collaborating with local governments to run programs such as homestays and trekking.

Kathmandu, 24th Shrawan — The Society of Travel and Tour Operators (SOTTO) Nepal highlighted that airfare remains expensive due to flights operating only to limited destinations. The organization addressed this issue during a press conference on Sunday. Chairman Man Bahadur Shahi explained that Nepal’s limited international air connectivity has increased foreign airlines’ monopolistic control, which has led to excessively high ticket prices.

SOTTO Nepal has continuously engaged in coordination, dialogue, and policy advocacy with relevant bodies to protect travel businesses’ professional interests, promote the sector, and resolve arising problems. To boost international tourism, SOTTO Nepal has participated in various programs across countries including Singapore, Malaysia, Russia, Finland, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, and the Indian states. These initiatives have effectively showcased Nepal’s tourism potential in international markets, contributing significantly to attracting tourists and increasing tourism revenue, according to the organization.