Airlines operators warn of stir

Issuing a statement on Tuesday, Airlines Operators Association of Nepal (AOAN) said airlines operators have already incurred a heavy loss  due to Covid-19 and suspension of flights.

The statement further said AOAN will be forced to resort to protest if the resumption of flights are further suspended. Since they are fully prepared to implement all safety protocol criteria set in by  the World Health Organization (WHO) and the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) to resume domestic air services, there is no question of flights being postponed further for indefinite period.

This was a quick response of the airlines operators to earlier government decision to suspend domestic and international flights until August 31, although they were supposed to be opened from August 17 only.

The government decision for postponement of aviation services comes after the country witnessed steady spike of Coronavirus.

“The suspension of aviation services has affected rescue flights for people affected by floods, landslides, disabled patients and pregnant women,” the statement said saying that aviation services fall under essential services that cannot be suspended.