The End of an Era, The Beginning of a Legacy: A Farewell to 9N-AIN
The End of an Era, The Beginning of a Legacy: A Farewell to 9N-AIN
On September 10, 2024, at Tribhuvan International Airport, Nepal witnessed a moment steeped in aviation history. Amidst a heartfelt ceremony, Buddha Air gracefully retired its veteran ATR 42-320 aircraft, call sign 9N-AIN, from its commercial fleet. This wasn’t just a routine decommissioning; it was a profound farewell to an aircraft that had become a silent workhorse and a symbol of reliable service in the Nepali skies for nearly three decades.
A Journey Shared: 29 Years of Flight
For twenty-nine years, 9N-AIN traversed the stunning landscapes of Nepal and beyond, accumulating an incredible 23,032 flight hours and safely carrying approximately 1.8 million passengers. Think of the countless stories, the breathtaking views of the Himalayas, the connections forged, and the adventures embarked upon by those 1.8 million souls! From its early days with Air Caledonie to its impactful tenure with Buddha Air, this aircraft was more than just metal and machinery; it was a vessel of shared experiences.
The ceremony itself was a moving tribute, highlighted by a special Water Canoning Salute – an honor typically reserved for distinguished personalities, reflecting the deep respect held for this aircraft’s remarkable service. Its final commercial journey was fittingly a mountain flight, offering a last, majestic gaze at the very peaks it had so often showcased to passengers.
A Testament to Meticulous Care – A Unique Feat in Nepal
What makes 9N-AIN’s retirement truly remarkable, especially in the context of Nepal’s aviation history, is that it completed its entire service life without a single minor incident, achieving an impressive 70,000 flight cycles. This is a particularly noteworthy achievement in a country where aviation safety has often faced challenges due to its rugged mountainous terrain, unpredictable weather patterns, and the complexities of operating in such an environment. While tragic incidents have unfortunately marked Nepal’s aviation past, 9N-AIN’s flawless record stands as a beacon of exceptional operational safety.
This achievement is a testament to the rigorous maintenance standards upheld by Buddha Air and the exceptional skill of its Nepali engineers and technicians. As ATR representatives, including Kaushal Bahadur Malla and Pawan Tanwani, acknowledged, Buddha Air’s dedication to Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) standards rivals those in advanced nations. It truly showcases the high level of professionalism within Nepal’s aviation sector.
This adherence to manufacturing guidelines, which dictate retirement after 70,000 cycles due to structural considerations, speaks volumes about Buddha Air’s unwavering commitment to safety and operational integrity. While many aircraft are sold off or converted for cargo before reaching their full lifespan, 9N-AIN’s journey to completion underscores a rare and admirable dedication to its designed purpose, setting a new benchmark for aviation in Nepal.
Beyond the Horizon: Buddha Air’s Vision
The retirement of 9N-AIN marks a significant milestone not only for Buddha Air but for Nepal’s aviation industry as a whole. As Buddha Air’s Executive Chairman, Birendra Bahadur Basnet, emotionally stated, the airline is the first in the world to retire an ATR-42 after it completed its full 70,000-cycle commercial flight life. This achievement elevates Nepal’s profile in global aviation, demonstrating a capacity for world-class operational excellence.
Buddha Air’s journey since its inception in 1997 is truly inspiring. Starting with Beechcraft planes, they embraced the ATR fleet with 9N-AIN being their first, a “lucky plane” that propelled them into a new era. Today, with eighteen ATR aircraft, they boast the seventh-largest ATR fleet globally, commanding over 65% of the domestic market and expanding international connections.
The farewell of 9N-AIN reminds us of the constant evolution in aviation, with newer, more fuel-efficient aircraft like the Boeing 777X and Airbus A350 taking to the skies. Yet, it also highlights the enduring legacy of reliable workhorses like the ATR 42-320, and the dedicated teams who ensure their safe and successful operation.
Good Karma in Every Flight
For us at Good Karma Trekking, the story of 9N-AIN resonates deeply. It embodies the principles of longevity, meticulous care, and a commitment to completing a journey with integrity. Just as an aircraft needs diligent maintenance to ensure safe passage, our treks are built on careful planning, experienced guides, and a profound respect for the environment and local communities. Every flight, every trek, every journey should contribute positively to the world.
The legacy of 9N-AIN isn’t just about an airplane; it’s about the countless safe passages it provided, the dreams it carried, and the high standards of aviation it helped establish in Nepal. It’s a reminder that every journey, big or small, contributes to a larger story.
What are your thoughts on this incredible milestone in Nepali aviation? Have you ever flown on an ATR in Nepal? Share your experiences in the comments below!
