KATHMANDU, Nepal, The national flag carrier of Nepal, Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC), on Tuesday, formally received two new aircraft from a Chinese manufacturer.
With the addition of two 17-seater Y-12e planes on its fleet, NAC has completed taking the delivery of all six Chinese-made planes, as part of a deal between Nepal and China.
At a ceremony held at the Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu, the Chinese supplier - AVIC International Holding, handed over the planes to NAC officials, with the presence of Nepali Minister for Culture, Tourism and Civil Aviation, Rabindra Adhikari, and Chinese Ambassador to Nepal, Yu Hong.
Addressing the event, Adhikari said that, the addition of the Chinese aircraft will contribute to the economic development of the Himalayan country.
"These aircraft are the symbol of cooperation between Nepal and China. I am confident that with these planes, Nepal Airlines Corporation will be able to serve the demand of the general public and contribute in national economy," he said.
"Air transportation is vital for mountainous country like Nepal. I am sure that the Chinese aircraft can work as an alternative to connect all provinces of the country with each other," he added.
NAC had signed a commercial agreement with AVIC International Aero-Development, to procure six aircraft - two 56-seater MA60 and four 17-seater Y-12e in Nov, 2012.
Nepal acquired the six Chinese aircraft, two in grants and four in loans, while now the NAC has majority of its planes made in China.
Addressing the function, the Chinese ambassador expressed hope that the Chinese aircraft will promote development of civil aviation and tourism sector of Nepal.-- NNN-NEPALNEWS
Source: NAM NEWS NETWORK
