Image Source: Economic Times
Amid escalating protests in Nepal, marked by social unrest and disruptions to normal life, Air India Express has extended a gesture of support and flexibility to passengers traveling to or from Nepal until September 17, 2025. The airline is offering passengers the option to reschedule their flights without incurring any additional fees or cancel tickets with full refunds, prioritizing passenger safety and convenience during this uncertain period.
Key Highlights: Flexible Travel Policies and Passenger Support
Passengers holding bookings for flights to or from Nepal through September 17, 2025, can reschedule their journeys to any future travel dates free of change fees or fare differences.
Alternatively, those who decide to cancel can receive full refunds credited back to their original mode of payment or through their travel agents.
These provisions are part of Air India Express’s commitment to ensuring safe and convenient travel despite the protests, which began on September 8, involving major cities like Kathmandu, Pokhara, Butwal, and Birgunj.
Operations beyond September 10 remain unaffected, and the airline closely monitors the situation to provide timely updates.
Context of Nepal Unrest and Travel Impact
The protests erupted following the Nepalese government’s ban on major social media platforms, citing concerns over tax revenues and cybersecurity, triggering widespread dissent.
Demonstrators are calling for an end to institutionalized corruption, greater governmental accountability, and transparent decision-making.
Clashes between protestors and security forces have resulted in at least 19 deaths and over 500 injuries.
A curfew has been imposed in multiple cities including Kathmandu to contain the unrest.
Nepal’s Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli resigned on September 9 amid growing political instability.
Passenger Assistance and Communication Channels
Air India Express has integrated an AI-powered chat assistant named Tia, accessible via its website, WhatsApp, and mobile app, to simplify passenger support services.
Passengers can type "NepalTravel" in the chat to initiate assistance with rescheduling, refund processes, or receive real-time updates.
The company urges travelers to stay informed through official channels and plan journeys cautiously respecting local advisories.
Wider Travel Industry Responses
Other carriers including IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India have also temporarily suspended or adjusted Nepal-bound flight operations in response to the evolving situation.
Similar rescheduling and refund waivers have been put in place across airlines to accommodate affected passengers.
Enhanced coordination between Indian aviation authorities and Nepalese counterparts aims to ensure passenger safety and restore normalcy at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport.
Conclusion
Air India Express’s proactive measures in extending fee waivers and full refunds demonstrate a compassionate approach towards travelers affected by Nepal’s ongoing protests. By prioritizing flexibility and safety, the airline is helping ease the stress faced by passengers amid political turmoil and logistical disruptions. Travelers are advised to leverage digital support tools and keep abreast of official updates as the situation evolves.
Sources: ANI News, Economic Times, LatestLY, The Daily Jagran, NDTV
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