KATHMANDU: The Civil Aviation Authority of Nepal (CAAN) has set the maximum airfare for domestic flights across the country amid soaring demand for tickets during the Dashain festival.

The aviation regulator has instructed airlines and stakeholders not to charge passengers more than the government-approved fare, warning of action against those who violate the directive.

According to the list published by CAAN, the highest airfare has been fixed at Rs 17,579 for the Kathmandu–Dhangadhi sector, while the lowest has been set at Rs 3,978 for the Kathmandu–Simara route. Airlines have often been accused of charging almost double the usual fare during festival seasons.

Maximum Domestic Airfares (as set by CAAN):

Kathmandu–Simara: Rs 3,978
Kathmandu–Bhairahawa: Rs 8,461
Kathmandu–Rajbiraj: Rs 8,210
Kathmandu–Surkhet: Rs 9,030
Kathmandu–Bharatpur: Rs 4,643
Kathmandu–Bhadrapur: Rs 12,112
Kathmandu–Janakpur: Rs 5,470
Kathmandu–Pokhara: Rs 6,635
Kathmandu–Nepalgunj: Rs 13,103
Kathmandu–Biratnagar: Rs 9,785
Kathmandu–Dhangadhi: Rs 17,579
Kathmandu–Tumlingtar: Rs 7,630

CAAN has stressed that airlines found charging beyond the prescribed rates will face strict action.