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Buddha Air is a Nepalese domestic airline based in Jawalakhel, Nepal. The airline began operations on 11 October 1997 and now flies over 10 destinations within Nepal as well as select cities in India. Today Buddha Air has two Beechcraft 1900D, three ATR 42-320 and eleven ATR 72-500. Buddha Air has flown over seven million passengers. Buddha Air operates all of its flights out of Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu - it used to fly frequently to its secondary hub in Pokhara Airport, however, this route has since been terminated.
Buddha Air also operates scheduled mountain sightseeing flights from Kathmandu that tour the Mount Everest range - you can also catch these flights from Pokhara to Annapurna Massif. These flights typically take off early in the morning and last around one hour.
In 2021 it was announced that the airline is establishing a subsidiary airline, Yashodhara Air, to operate domestic STOL (short take-off and landing) flights within Nepal by 2022.
Baggage Policy
Buddha Air operates different rules for different fares. More information is listed below.
Carry-on Baggage
One personal item and one piece of carry-on baggage are allowed onboard a Buddha Air flight. Personal items are a laptop bag, a handbag, a camera, etc.; the carry-on baggage cannot exceed 5kg in weight and must fit in the overhead lockers or under the seat in front. It cannot exceed 55cm x 40cm x 20cm (20"x 14" x 9") in dimensions.
No prohibited items are allowed in carry-on baggage and must be transported in the checked baggage including any fluid exceeding 100ml. No dangerous goods are allowed in carry-on baggage or checked baggage.
Checked Baggage
Passengers travelling on a Buddha Air flight with 'Normal Fare' are entitled to a free 25kg baggage. 'Apex Fare' and 'Bravo Fare' passengers are entitled to 20kg checked baggage allowance. 'Charlie Fare', 'Delta Fare' and 'Echo Fare' passengers are entitled to one 15kg baggage. This baggage must not be oversized, otherwise, an additional fee would apply.
Excess Baggage
Excess baggage can be purchased when booking with Alternative Airlines for an extra fee. Contact us for any questions regarding excess baggage.
Check-In
Buddha Air only operates an airport check-in system and the times at which check-in is permitted, will vary depending on your flight.
Online Check-in
Buddha Air does not currently have an online check-in service. All passengers must check in at the airport.
Airport Check-in
If you're flying on a domestic flight with Buddha Air, you will need to check in for your flight at least 1 hour before the scheduled departure time. For international Buddha Air flights, you'll need to allow more time and be checked in at least 3 hours before takeoff.
Your ticket and valid photo ID will be required at the time of check-in at the airport. If you're a Nepalese citizen, you'll need your government-issued national ID, driving license or election photo ID card. For Indian citizens, any government-issued photo ID (except Aadhar Card) is accepted. For all other citizens, a valid passport is required.
Frequent Flyer Programme
Buddha Air has a frequent flyer programme called Royal Club.
Buddha Air's Royal Club
Buddha Air's frequent flyer programme is known as 'Royal Club'. Passengers can earn points by buying the airline's flights and spending the membership points at a later date to redeem free flights. Points can also be converted to vouchers to spend with the airline's partners. Members receive various benefits depending on the membership tiers, including priority check-in, additional baggage allowance, free cancellation, etc. Please check the airline website for more information about their 'Royal Club'.
Airline Alliance
Buddha Air isn't part of any airline alliance.
Special Services
Buddha Air accommodates pets onboard its aircraft, however, certain conditions apply.
Travelling With Pets
When flying with Buddha Air, you can take your pet with you, however, there are certain terms and conditions you need to adhere to.
A health certificate / fit-to-fly vaccination is required from a licensed veterinarian and you'll also need a leak-proof, ventilated pet carrier.
Check out our blog post on the best airlines for travelling with pets for more information.
Destinations that Buddha Air flies to
As of November 2020, Buddha Air operates flights to almost 15 destinations, mainly within Nepal.
In addition to these routes, in May 2019, Buddha Air announced that they were considering expanding their international routes to China. Buddha Air also operates scheduled flight tours that depart early in the morning between Kathmandu and Mount Everest as well as Pokhara to Annapurna Massif - these are ideal for tourists looking to do some mountain sightseeing.
Alternatives to Buddha Air
Each of the airlines below fly similar routes to Buddha Air.
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Hub Airport
Tribhuvan International Airport Nepal
Buddha Air is based at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, Nepal and is located around 5km from the city centre of Kathmandu. The airport was inaugurated in 1955 by King Mahendra of Nepal. Over 30 airlines serve the airport connecting Nepal to destinations in Asia and the Middle East. Tribhuvan International Airport also operates services for many airlines including Nepal Airlines, Shree Airlines, Sita Air and Yeti Airlines.
The airport is currently running at full capacity therefore the Government of Nepal has encouraged Gautam Buddha International Airport to be the alternative airport in the event of any necessary diversions.
Fleet
As of 2022, Buddha Air operates a fleet of Beechcraft 1900D, ATR42-320 and ATR72-500. These are all twin-engine turboprop aircraft designed for small regional operations. Buddha Air is the only airline to fly Beechcrafts that are brand new and straight-out-of-the-factory in Nepal. Buddha Air plans to retire its two Beechcraft 1900D by 2023 - these will likely be replaced by the 3 x ATR 72-500s the airline has on order.