Accountability Must Take Flight

For years, flying within Nepal has required passengers to accept uncertainty as part of the journey. Delays have become routine. Flights are cancelled at the last minute with little or no explanation. After major disruptions, passengers are often left stranded at airports without clear updates, compensation, or alternative travel arrangements. Lost baggage is another common frustration. In most cases, passengers are forced to bear the inconvenience while airlines continue operating with little accountability. The proposed Domestic Air Carrier Liability Bill 2026 presents a rare opportunity to rebalance the relationship between airlines and passengers. If lawmakers endorse the bill without weakening its key provisions, Nepal's aviation industry could finally embrace a fundamental principle: passengers should not bear the cost of an airline's failures. The bill has the potential to become a landmark piece of consumer protection legislation. It requires airlines to compensate passengers for flight delays, cancellations, denied boarding, lost baggage, and accidents resulting from circumstances within the airline's control. Such provisions could significantly improve the flying experience by giving passengers meaningful legal protection.