Buddha Air is all set to increase flight frequency to Bhadrapur, Biratnagar, Nepalgunj and Dhangadhi from March 14 following addition of ATR 72-500 aircraft to its fleet.

With the acquisition of ATR 72 aircraft last February, Buddha has nine aircraft in its fleet, including two Beechcraft 1900 D, three ATR 42s and four ATR 72s. The carrier has also said that the number of lower-fare tickets would be increased in the near future. 

The carrier said the new aircraft has been added to handle the rising air traffic movement.

It said that congested airports and unfavourable weather conditions have been causing flight delays. “With the addition of ATR 72 aircraft, we hope to minimise flight delays,” said the carrier.

Buddha Air has said most of the flights have been added in major trunk routes upon request from passengers. The 72-seater aircraft is environmentally friendly and consumes less fuel compared to other aircraft, the airline said. “The low noise produced by the aircraft, spacious cabin and ergonomic seats with enough legroom ensure a comfortable flight.”

Buddha currently occupies 61 percent of the air passenger market share in the domestic sector.

Despite weakening of Nepali rupee vis-a-vis US dollar and high operating costs, Buddha Air has been offering affordable fares to its passengers, it said.

After the expansion of Janakpur Airport is complete, Buddha Air plans to operate its ATR 72 aircraft on that route. The one-way fare to Janakpur will be Rs2,000.