Nepal proposes fines for airlines overcharging passengers

The government of Nepal is drafting legislation to penalize airline companies that charge passengers airfares exceeding approved rates. Under the proposed amendments to the laws governing the Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal, operators found charging excessive fares during festivals, natural disasters, or other emergencies could face fines ranging from Rs 500,000 to Rs 1.5 million.

The Ministry of Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation has moved the draft forward following stakeholder feedback. The proposed Clause 47(d) classifies operating flights while collecting fares above approved rates as an offense. To deter habitual violators, the bill includes provisions to double the fine for repeat offenders.

These measures aim to protect passengers during periods of high demand, such as the Dashain, Tihar, and Chhath festivals, or when landslides and floods disrupt road travel, making air travel a necessity. The legislation seeks to provide authorities with a stronger regulatory basis to curb price exploitation during such emergencies.