Kathmandu. Buddha Air bid adieu to the ATR-72 aircraft with call sign 9 IN-AJO after the full operation of the aircraft.

The ATR-72 aircraft has a maximum flying 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.

Birendra Bahadur Basnet, Executive Chairman of Buddha Air, said, “This aircraft has contributed to make air travel in Nepal easier, less expensive and environment-friendly. This has played a very important role in both expanding the market and increasing the reputation of Buddha Air. We have also set a historical record of operating a full life of ATR aircraft. ’

Teknath Sitaula, general manager of Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN), said that Buddha Air’s commitment to aviation safety and excellent maintenance and management made it possible to depart the ATR aircraft successfully.

Mr. Stefano Marazzini, Senior Vice President of ATR Company, said, “The aircraft designed and manufactured by ATR Company has been able to provide safe service till the last flight with the right hands, the right environment and the best technical systems. 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. Similarly, Varanasi and Kolkata of India are also operating international flights.