Unfair offloading of passengers stopped by Nepal Government
Nepal Government Introduces Strict Rules to Stop Unfair Offloading of Passengers at Tribhuvan International Airport
The Government of Nepal has implemented strict new rules to ensure that Nepali travelers are no longer unfairly stopped, offloaded, or denied boarding at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) without valid reasons. The decision comes after a surge in complaints that airlines have been preventing passengers from flying abroad by giving unnecessary excuses.
This new reform aims to protect passengers’ rights, promote transparency, and eliminate long-standing misconduct at the airport, including harassment, bribery, and unethical “setting” practices.
Why the Government Introduced New Rules
According to the Department of Immigration, over a hundred Nepali passengers traveling to popular destinations like Dubai, Qatar, and Malaysia were recently turned back without clear justification. Many travelers reported that airlines were misusing old, strict provisions to stop passengers even when their documents were valid.
To address this, the government amended the Visit Visa Guidelines – 2080, introducing a passenger-friendly system to ensure fair treatment and accountability.
Key Highlights of the New Rule
1. Airlines Cannot Randomly Stop or Offload Passengers If a traveler has:
- Valid passport
- Approved visa
- Confirmed flight ticket
- Required self-declaration
…then airlines must allow the passenger to board.
Airlines Are Now Fully Responsible
If a passenger is stopped despite having proper documents, the airline itself will be held responsible. They can no longer blame immigration or other authorities without valid grounds.
Written Explanation Is Mandatory
- If an airline decides to offload a passenger:
- They must provide a written explanation to both the passenger and the Immigration Office.
- The explanation must include a clear and valid reason.
Legal Action Against Airlines for Misconduct
The government will take legal action against airlines that unfairly stop passengers. This includes penalties, warnings, or stricter regulatory measures.
Compensation Will Be Borne by Airlines
Any financial loss, inconvenience, or other damages faced by the traveler due to improper offloading must be compensated by the airline.
- A Major Step Toward Passenger Rights in Nepal
- The government’s new passenger-friendly reforms aim to:
- Ensure fair and transparent airport procedures
- Reduce harassment and exploitation
- Streamline international travel
- Restore public trust in the aviation system
For many Nepali workers and travelers, especially those heading to the Gulf and Southeast Asian countries, this decision provides relief and protection against unnecessary airport hurdles.
What This Means for Nepali Travelers
From now on:
- If your documents are complete, airlines must allow you to board.
- You cannot be turned back without a written reason.
- You can demand compensation if you are unfairly offloaded.
- The new rule empowers Nepali travelers and ensures that their rights are respected at every step of the journey.
Conclusion
The Nepal Government’s new regulations mark a major milestone in protecting the dignity and rights of Nepali air travelers. By ending unfair offloading practices, demanding written justification from airlines, and enforcing strict accountability, this reform ensures transparency, fairness, and a smoother travel experience for everyone departing from Tribhuvan International Airport. These changes bring long-awaited relief, especially for workers and travelers heading abroad, and restore confidence in Nepal’s aviation system.
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