Buddha Air ATR 42 2 1
Buddha Air, Nepal’s leading domestic airline, has made history with the retirement of its ATR 42-320 aircraft, with registration 9N-AIN. This marks a significant milestone as it’s the first-ever ATR aircraft to reach its full economic life of 70,000 flight cycles through commercial passenger operations.
The ATR 42-320, known for its exceptional performance in high-altitude regions, has been integral to Buddha Air’s fleet since its acquisition in 2008.
A Legacy of Service
The turboprop’s exceptional performance, particularly in Nepal’s challenging high-altitude regions, has enabled the airline to provide accessible air travel to diverse destinations nationwide.
Over the years, the aircraft has served a remarkable 1.8 million passengers, connecting them to bustling cities and serene mountain villages.
The airline’s executive chairperson, Birendra Bahadur Basnet, expressed gratitude for the aircraft’s invaluable service. “9N-AIN has been a workhorse in our fleet, embodying the very principles of convenience and safety,” he said. “Its exceptional performance on Nepal’s challenging routes has made it easy for us to provide accessible air travel across diverse regions.”
A Farewell to a Faithful Servant
High-profile figures attended the retirement ceremony, including the French Ambassador, representatives from ATR Company, Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA), and the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN).
During the event, Basnet highlighted the significance of this achievement, emphasizing that it not only sets a record for ATR aircraft but also demonstrates Buddha Air’s commitment to operational excellence.
9N-AIN was also one of the first ATR aircraft to be enrolled in Buddha Air’s ATR fleet family. It provided a smooth and comfortable flight, setting itself apart and earning a place in the airline’s history. During the presence of ATR Aircraft, Buddha Air has expanded to 18 aircraft and 15 destinations.
The retirement of this ATR 42 aircraft marks the end of an era for Buddha Air. As the airline continues to expand its operations, it will look to replace the retired aircraft with the larger ATR 72-500 variant to maintain its fleet’s efficiency and meet the growing demand for air travel in Nepal.
