Concerns Mount Over Pilot Recruitment and Resource Utilization at Nepal Airlines

A proposed recruitment drive for external pilots and cabin crew at Nepal Airlines Corporation (NAC) has sparked concerns among aviation professionals and employees over governance, transparency, and the effective use of existing resources. Critics argue that the recruitment plan lacks clear operational justification and have called for greater oversight of the process.

The controversy also includes allegations of potential conflicts of interest involving senior management, particularly regarding pilot training opportunities and recruitment decisions. While no official findings have been made, employees and industry stakeholders have urged an independent review to ensure recruitment and training decisions are based on operational needs and merit.

Concerns have also been raised over pilot utilization. According to employees familiar with operational data, many existing pilots are reportedly flying well below the regulatory monthly limit, suggesting that current staffing levels could support increased operations without immediate large-scale external recruitment. Questions have also been raised about the utilization of contract pilots who receive higher salary packages but are reportedly not rostered to full capacity.

Employees further argue that qualified internal pilots awaiting type-rating training should be given priority before additional external hiring is considered. Aviation stakeholders are now calling for a transparent investigation into recruitment practices, pilot utilization, training nominations, and compensation policies, stating that such a review is essential to strengthen corporate governance, improve employee confidence, and ensure decisions serve the long-term interests of Nepal Airlines Corporation.