Shree Airlines: Nepal’s Versatile Aviation Leader Founded in 1999 as Air Ananya, Shree Airlines is a prominent Nepalese airline headquartered in Kathmandu. Initially focused on helicopter services, it has since expanded into fixed-wing operations, becoming a significant player in Nepal's aviation sector. The airline operates both passenger and cargo flights, offering a range of services including humanitarian missions, religious tourism, and medical evacuations. Fleet and Operations Shree Airlines boasts a diverse fleet comprising both fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters. Its fixed-wing fleet includes: Bombardier CRJ200ER (2 aircraft) Bombardier CRJ700 (2 aircraft) De Havilland Canada Dash 8 Q400 (7 aircraft) The airline also operates a fleet of helicopters, including: Mil Mi-17 (6 helicopters) Eurocopter AS350 B3e (2 helicopters) These aircraft enable Shree Airlines to serve various destinations within Nepal, including Kathmandu, Pokhara, Biratnagar, Dhangadhi, Nepalgunj, Bhairahawa, and Birendranagar . Services and Specializations Shree Airlines offers a range of services tailored to meet the diverse needs of its clientele: Passenger Flights: Regular domestic flights connecting major cities across Nepal. Charter Services: Customized charter flights for various purposes, including tourism and business. Humanitarian Missions: Transporting aid and personnel for organizations like the United Nations and World Food Program. Religious Tourism: Helicopter services to pilgrimage sites such as Muktinath and Mount Kailash. Medical Evacuations: Emergency medical flights to facilitate timely treatment. Safety and Challenges While Shree Airlines has made significant strides in Nepal's aviation industry, it has faced challenges related to safety. Notably, in 2006, a Mil Mi-8 helicopter operated by the airline crashed in eastern Nepal, resulting in the loss of all 24 people on board. The incident was attributed to pilot error and inadequate training . Additionally, in 2023, the airline's fleet was temporarily grounded following an engine fire on one of its Bombardier Dash 8 Q400 aircraft . Conclusion Shree Airlines has played a pivotal role in enhancing connectivity within Nepal, especially in remote and underserved regions. Despite facing challenges, the airline continues to expand its services and fleet, contributing to the development of Nepal's aviation infrastructure. For more information or to book a flight, visit Shree Airlines' official website.