Yeti Airlines: Nepal’s Premier Domestic Carrier Established in May 1998, Yeti Airlines has grown to become one of Nepal's leading domestic airlines, offering reliable and efficient air travel across the country. Headquartered in Kathmandu, the airline operates a fleet of seven aircraft, including ATR 72-500s, serving eight key destinations within Nepal. Fleet and Operations Yeti Airlines' fleet is well-suited for Nepal's diverse and challenging terrains. The ATR 72-500 aircraft are known for their performance in short takeoff and landing (STOL) conditions, making them ideal for operations in mountainous regions. The airline's primary hub is Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, from where it connects to cities like Pokhara, Biratnagar, Bhairahawa, Nepalgunj, Janakpur, Simara, and Bhadrapur. Commitment to Sustainability In 2019, Yeti Airlines became the first carbon-neutral airline in Nepal and South Asia. This milestone reflects the airline's dedication to environmental responsibility and sustainable aviation practices. Subsidiary and Services Yeti Airlines is the parent company of Tara Air, which specializes in serving remote and mountainous destinations, further enhancing the airline's reach within Nepal. Safety and Challenges While Yeti Airlines has made significant strides in domestic aviation, it has faced challenges concerning safety. Notably, Yeti Airlines Flight 691 crashed on January 15, 2023, during its approach to Pokhara International Airport, resulting in the loss of all 72 people on board. Investigations revealed that the pilots inadvertently moved the condition levers to the feathered position, leading to a loss of thrust and subsequent aerodynamic stall. Contributing factors included human errors, inadequate training, and non-compliance with standard operating procedures. Due to safety concerns, Yeti Airlines is currently banned from operating in European Union airspace. Conclusion Yeti Airlines plays a crucial role in Nepal's aviation sector, providing essential connectivity across the nation. Despite facing operational challenges, the airline continues to focus on safety improvements and service enhancements to better serve its passengers.